Mohsen Mahdawi:
I was torn apart between feeling excited for this interview that I waited for, for more than a year and being very cautious about the possibility that this interview might lead to my detention.
Part of me felt that there might be people in this system of immigration who see my activism for what it is, that it is an activism against war and for peace. On the other hand, I also wanted to take the shot, because I knew that being detained in Vermont, if I lined up everything perfectly with my legal team, I could go through the process and fight for my rights and fight for my rights on fair grounds.
I would say that I have done everything correctly. I have lived in this country, paid taxes, never committed a crime. I have studied in this country, built the bridges, connected with many communities. And I really wanted to give it a fair shot and see if I will be — if I can become a citizen.
