And just like that; with the stroke of a pen, Travel Ban is over.
In May 2009, my brother was hospitalized for what appeared to be his final round, of his unfair battle, with Leukemia.
This was WAY before the Travel Ban. But because of hostilities with Iran, my parents were denied a visa.
My sister-in-law & I made many trips to Senator Dianne Feinstein's office in San Francisco for help. I remember, because we would always eat at the Del Taco across the street. (A relic of childhood memories for my sister-in-law; and now, a cute memory for me too!)
Senator Feinstein's staff were super kind & helpful. After many comings & goings, they worked with US Embassy staff to get my parents a visa.
My parents arrived in the US on July 9, 2009.
My brother had died on June 2, 2009.
_________
I'm not naïve: No country owes another country open visitation rights.
But behind every one of these policies, there are real families; real persons: brothers, sisters, mothers, wives, fathers, children.
They are the first-order victims in these games.
I belatedly thank Senator Feinstein's staff for their help in our moment of need; and I hope we can all help others in their moments of need; even if life's forces are bigger & can't be overcome in time.
