Support Sal Khan: Queer Activist Facing Legal Challenges

Hi, my name is Sal Khan. I am a 33-year-old openly queer activist, community college student, and healthcare worker. Five years ago, I left Pakistan to seek freedom and safety in Massachusetts, where I’ve built a life by volunteering with local organizations that support homeless women, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrant justice. My life is dedicated to helping others, and I’m proud of the community I’ve found and served here in Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts (United States).

On May 7th of this year, I experienced a major relapse while riding an MBTA bus, which resulted in my arrest for resisting arrest and trespassing. The entire incident is a blur, and I have no memory of what happened or why the police were called. Unfortunately, instead of receiving medical help, I was detained for the night at the MBTA transit police station and later on transferred to an I.C.E detention center in Plymouth, Massachusetts for 57 days where I faced further discrimination, mistreatment and dehumanization.

I was sent to solitary confinement twice for non-violently advocating for better accommodation, medical care and unrestricted access of communication with my family, friends and lawyer on phones. Much of what I faced has been detailed in an interview given to Boston Globe (article link given below) where I not only shared my story but also advocated for better living conditions for I.C.E detainees currently being held at the Plymouth County Correctional Facility (PCCF). This entire incident has not only been traumatic, but it has also placed a financial and legal burden on me that I cannot handle alone.

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/08/18/metro/ice-immigration-contract-plymouth/

I’m currently facing legal fees and court costs, all while managing my mental health and trying to continue my work and studies. As a healthcare worker and community college student, my income barely covers my basic living expenses, and this situation has added immense stress. Your support will help me stay afloat during this challenging time and rebuild my life.

The funds raised will go toward:

Legal fees and court costs: Ensuring I have the resources to fight this case.

Mental health support: Therapy and care to prevent future relapses.

Living expenses: Assisting me in covering daily needs while I focus on recovery.

Any contribution, big or small, will make a huge impact in helping me navigate this difficult time and rebuild my life. I am deeply grateful for your support, and I hope that with your help, I can continue my education and community work without the overwhelming burden of legal and financial hardship.

Thank you for standing with me. Your kindness and generosity mean the world.