I immigrated from Burma in early 2006 to pursue education and a new life in the United States. I was only 18 at that time. Life in Burma was very difficult. My family already had to seek asylum here in the United States before I arrived. Eventually I did the same. Having witnessed enormous amounts of social injustice in my native country, and a significant threat to my own life, I’m fortunate for the opportunities of education and a meaningful career here in the United States. It was in Buffalo that I first saw another person from my home country – what a joy that was. It left me yearning to find out more about this city and the refugee and immigrant communities here. As I became better acquainted with my new home, I realized this country also experiences social, political, economic, and academic injustice in its own way. I want to work alongside my fellow Buffalonians to help us understand and appreciate all we can offer each other.

Ba Zan Lin
Buffalo, NY

Making Buffalo Home is a two-year, in-depth Buffalo Toronto Public Media engagement initiative to inform and raise awareness of immigration for our entire community. The project aims to help the region develop a better understanding of the shared opportunities and challenges we face together as long-time residents and new immigrants and refugees.

Making Buffalo Home is funded by Rich Products Corporation and Rich Family Foundation.