Faiza Haji

When Faiza Haji came to America in 2006, she carried with her the Somalian tradition of poetry that is helping pave the way to her future. “I want to go into civil law because I want to stand up for people who don’t have a voice. That’s what I do with my poetry.”

Faiza Haji was born in Kenya to Somalian parents and immigrated to the United States in 2006. Faiza has embraced the Somalian tradition of poetry which is embedded in the culture of the people. “I’m very passionate about spoken word poetry,” says Faiza, who is a student at Decatur High School. “I love being able to communicate with different groups of people and move them with my writing.”

Faiza has found a supportive community in Decatur. “Since Decatur is a majority liberal community, it’s very accepting. Being a Muslim in these times in America is nerve racking. Everyone has a different view of Muslims, and there are a lot of misconceptions and stereotypes. I feel that we don’t fit under those stereotypes because Islam preaches peace. I don’t want people to label me based on how I look or my religion. I want people to look past that and see me for a spoken word poet and an artist. It’s very hard to be the community that is always being attacked. Not only am I Muslim, I am also a black woman. It is a lot to carry on my shoulders.”

Faiza’s experience living in America as a minority has inspired her career choice. “I want to go into civil law because I want to stand up for people who don’t have a voice. That’s what I do with my poetry.”