My name is Zerin Firoze, and I have been an outspoken Ex-Muslim and atheist activist in Bangladesh for three years before immigrating to the US in 2016. In Bangladesh, women are often treated as property under Islamic law, and returning there would put my religious freedom and safety at serious risk. There is a well-documented pattern of outspoken atheists being killed in Bangladesh, and I have personally received rape and death threats from the Jamaat Shibir—an Islamic political party—for advocating for the separation of mosque and state, women’s rights, and LGBTQ rights.

Since coming to the US, I have continued my activism, speaking at organizations like American Atheists, Long Island Atheists, NYC Atheists, Iowa Atheists and Free-thinkers, and many more. I have been honored to receive scholarships from American Atheists, the Secular Student Alliance, and the American Humanists Association. However, recent moving expenses and domestic violence attorney fees have left me with no savings to hire an immigration attorney for my upcoming asylum interview on March 19th. I am also at risk of being wrongfully arrested or detained by ICE during this process, and may need additional support for bail or legal fees.

I have dedicated my life to secular activism, and now I urgently need your help. Please consider donating whatever you can and sharing this fundraiser. Your support will help me fight for my safety, freedom, and the ability to continue advocating for human rights.