President Obama welcomed a Syrian refugee to the United States in a touching comment left on the Humans of New York Facebook page on Wednesday, telling him, "You're part of what makes America great."
Obama left the comment on the seventh photograph in a series about a Syrian man currently living in Istanbul, Turkey, retelling the story of his childhood, education, and how he finally learned that he would be moving to Troy, Michigan.
"I still think I have a chance to make a difference in the world," says the anonymous man, interviewed by HONY photographer Brandon Stanton. "I learned today that I'm going to Troy, Michigan. I know nothing about it. I just hope that it's safe and that it's a place where they respect science."
He added, "I just want to get back to work. I want to be a person again. I don't want the world to think I'm over. I'm still here."
In response, Obama says that the man and his family are an inspiration.
"As a husband and a father, I cannot even begin to imagine the loss you've endured," Obama wrote. "You and your family are an inspiration. I know that the great people of Michigan will embrace you with the compassion and support you deserve. Yes, you can still make a difference in the world, and we're proud that you'll pursue your dreams here. Welcome to your new home. You're part of what makes America great."
In the photo series, the man starts by saying he was determined to become a scientist when he was young, and stood out in school. "My ultimate goal was to become a great scientist and make a lasting contribution to humanity," he says.
But then, the Syrian civil war changed things. Regime missiles were fired into his compound, and later, much of his belongings were looted.
"Sixteen people died in the attack," he said. "Seven were from my family."
Read through the entire series below:
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