I was born in the United States 16 years ago. My parents were also born and raised in the U.S. I attend the local high school in your area. I am your sons or daughters friend.

My brother serves in the U.S. Air Force and my sister is a nurse at the local Red Cross. My father is your childs dentist and my mother volunteers at the local school.

I share your same values. I share your same fears. I celebrate the 4th of July. I am proud to be an American. I felt the same pain you felt on September 11th as our nation was attacked.

You and I are the same yet we are not. Although as you can see your family and mine are very similar, yet now my family is not welcome in your communitee. I am spat on at school. My uncle's restraunt was vandalized. My father attempted to board a flight and the other passengers refused to fly with him.

I am an Arab. I understand your fears. Please understand mine.