Kenan Trebincevic is 34 years old. He lives in Queens, and works as a physical therapist.
In 1993, he was a 12-year-old Muslim refugee. He, his brother and father were exiled from Bosnia, during a war against his people.
In between, he was a Westporter.
This week, Kenan told his story — one that resonates strongly, now that Donald Trump has called for banning all Muslim immigrants to the United States — on Esquire.com.
Kenan Trebincevic (Courtesy/Esquire.com)
He writes about his parents’ decision to apply for permanent asylum in the US:
“Dad and I will be nobodies, so you boys can become somebodies,” my mother said. We were blessed to be sponsored by the generous churches and synagogues of the Connecticut Interfaith Council.
A Westport Methodist minister shared his home with us for 4 months and helped my parents find jobs. A nearby orthodontist fixed my teeth for free. When my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, a Jewish surgeon operated on her without sending a bill for the operation, chemotherapy, and radiation.
At [Bedford Middle] school, I was unable to speak English. The principal introduced me to the 7th grade class. Miguel, a Spanish Catholic boy, offered me the seat next to him and became my best friend, eventually teaching me about baseball, football, and hockey.
The family moved a few times — to Norwalk, Stratford, then back to Westport at Sasco Creek Village.
Kenan Trebincevic, from his website.
Kenan earned his masters degree in physical therapy from the University of Hartford in 2004. Today he’s got a thriving practice, specializing in adult and adolescent sports rehabilitation.
He’s also an American citizen.
Kenan’s Esquire essay is titled “I’m Muslim. I Was a Refugee. I’m Proud to Be an American.” Click here to read his full story.
It’s a great one.
(To learn more about Kenan’s immigration and stay in Westport, click here for the book he wrote with Susan Shapiro. Hat tip: Roger Sherman)
