A World of Hope
Humam Al-Attar is a father of three who has recently relocated to the United States from Syria. Originally from Iraq, Humam is making big changes to make sure his family is financially supported in the United States. "I hope to get to a point so that I can buy a home back in my country for my kids future," said Humam. He currently lives in a three room apartment with his wife, Nadia, and three sons, Zein Alabadeen and twins Ibraheem and Alhasan.
Humam and his son Zein, perform the dhuhr prayer just after noon in his bedroom. The Al-Attar's practice Muslim. Zein, 7, has just reached the age where he is allowed to pray with his father.
Humam helps nurse Jaime Duvall, 35, tear a piece of tape for his mother's IV. Hafayaa, Humam's mother, speaks little English and counts on her son to translate for her. She was in the hospital for a few days because of a chest cold. While completing a few tests the doctor discovered she had an extra kidney. "I buy, I buy," Hafayya joked with the nurse.
Humam Al-Attar takes a break before he turns in for the night. Humam has been smoking cigarettes since he was in high school and has recently decided to quit.
Humam helps his son Ibraheem, locate words in a coloring book while his mother plays with Alhassan. Humam spends most of his time teaching his three sons, as well as his mother and wife English. He started learning the language in the fifth grade back in Iraq. His oldest son, Zein, knows a little but cannot carry a conversation.
Humam graduated from The Institute of Technology in Baghdad and studied civil engineering in the road construction department. He then went to the University of Baghdad and studied Russian for four years. Even though he has a degree, he is finding trouble getting a decent paying job. Until a door opens for him, he will continue working as a translator for the Alive Center in Bowling Green, Ky.
Humam plays with his children outside during a unseasonably warm December day.
Humam Al-Attar comforts his son after a long day of playing around the house. Since the twins haven't received all their shots they are not able to attend school.
Humam receives help adjusting his seat before a test drive in his friends car. His first car was a Volkswagen almost 13 years ago. After relocating in the states, Humam has to retake his drivers test, in English, to receive his license. He failed this first time and was stumped on one particular question. "What does the blue sign mean?"
