My name is Taqa, and I’m creating this fundraiser because I’m trying to rebuild my life and create safety, stability, and a chance at healing.

In March, I was sexually assaulted by someone I deeply trusted. Since then, I’ve been trying to survive the emotional and practical reality of what comes after experiencing trauma. I am a queer Bedouin Palestinian artist and educator who has been estranged from my family after being disowned and surviving honor based violence due to my sexuality. Because of that separation and loss of support, I’ve spent nearly a decade living in survival mode and navigating life without the safety net that many people can rely on.

I’m now planning to move from Detroit to Chicago in order to create distance from the place and circumstances connected to my trauma and begin building a safer, healthier future. This move is not just about changing cities. It is about reclaiming my body, identity, autonomy, and sense of self.

As someone without family support, the costs of starting over are overwhelming. I’m asking for help covering moving expenses, breaking my lease, and creating a small safety net so I can arrive with stability instead of continuing to live in crisis. Having a financial cushion would allow me to focus on healing and rebuilding rather than constantly fighting to survive.

Asking for help does not come easily to me, but I know I cannot carry this alone. If you are able to donate, share this fundraiser, or support me in any way, I would be deeply grateful. Your support would help me begin again and create a future where I am not defined by survival, but by the life I’m finally able to build for myself.

Thank you for reading, for believing me, and for helping me take this step toward safety and healing.