Afghan Girl's College Dreams Shattered by Trump's Travel Ban

President Trump's travel ban has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the lives of thousands, including Saira, a young Afghan woman who had been accepted into five US colleges. Saira, whose face and voice have been altered to protect her identity, spoke to PBS NewsHour producer Zeba Warsi from Peshawar, Pakistan, where she had traveled for her US visa appointment. Now, she faces the agonizing dilemma of whether to return to Afghanistan, where the Taliban could harm her for seeking an education abroad, or remain in Pakistan, stranded and uncertain of her future. "Although I have successfully obtained a student visa for this fall semester, this new policy is giving me anxiety," Saira said. The White House stated that Saira should be able to enter the US as her visa was issued before the proclamation. Saira's story highlights the human cost of political decisions and the plight of Afghan women facing restricted access to education and public life. Her determination to pursue her education despite the risks serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope amid adversity.