The long tail of the 9/11 attacks for one Afghan family
Summary
This episode marks the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by focusing on the story of an Afghan woman who worked as a U.S. government linguist. After the Taliban’s return in 2021, she was evacuated to the U.S. but was forced to leave her two older children behind in Afghanistan. Now living in California, she faces stalled immigration processes that prevent her from reuniting with her kids, highlighting the long-term human cost of the war and shifting U.S. policies.
Topics discussed
Introduction: 25th Anniversary of 9/11 and Global Context
S's Journey: Law Degree and Early Life in Kabul
Post-9/11 Afghanistan: Education, Marriage, and Abuse
Working for DEA and the Return of the Taliban
The Chaotic Evacuation: Taliban Threats and Airport Mayhem
The Fateful Decision: Separation from Her Children
Life in California: Reunion Calls and Personal Struggles
Immigration Hurdles: Legal Wins and Policy Reversals
Broken Trust: Government Response and Final Reflections
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