Asians Around Appalachia: Jack Dabaj
- aaajournal25
- Sep 12
- 1 min read
Jack Dabaj is a Syrian-American from Charleston, West Virginia. He is bilingual, speaking both English and Arabic. In his free time, Dabaj plays piano and pingpong.
Interview
Have you ever felt out of place due to your identity? If so, where did you find a sense of community?
No, I didn't have any problems with my identity
Can you tell us about one of your stories related to being an AppalAsian? (e.g. household traditions, bullying/harassment, family business, etc.)
I'm from Syria and I moved to the US 4 years ago. I learned the language and I'm living my life.
What is one Appalachian / Asian American related policy issue that’s important to you and why? (e.g. lack of representation, barriers to education/healthcare, economic inequality, etc.)
Everyone assumes that I am a Muslim just because I am Arab.
What is one piece of advice you would give to AppalAsians struggling to fit in
Remember you are not different, the world around you is. So enjoy life and don't make anyone change your thoughts, and you have another world and culture that others don't have.