Estimated read time: 7 min read
Table of Contents
List of Characters
| Character Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Fauziya Kassindja | Protagonist, Narrator |
| Uncle Saeed | Fauziya's Uncle |
| Fauziya's Father | Fauziya's Father |
| Fauziya's Mother | Fauziya's Mother |
| Tante Fatou | Fauziya's Aunt |
| Judge Blane | Immigration Judge |
| Layli Miller Bashir | Co-Author, Fauziya's Advocate |
Role Identification
In the book "Do They Hear You When You Cry" by Fauziya Kassindja, the characters play various roles that contribute to the narrative and highlight the struggles faced by Fauziya as she seeks asylum in the United States. The characters range from family members to legal professionals and advocates, each influencing Fauziya's journey and representing different aspects of her story.
Character Descriptions
Fauziya Kassindja
Fauziya Kassindja is the protagonist and narrator of the book. She is a young woman from Togo who flees her home country to escape a forced marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). Fauziya is determined and resilient, facing numerous challenges throughout her journey to seek asylum in the United States. She is portrayed as courageous and determined to make a better life for herself.
Uncle Saeed
Uncle Saeed is Fauziya's uncle, who supports her decision to escape Togo and seek asylum in the United States. He assists her in arranging her travel and provides emotional support throughout her journey. Uncle Saeed is portrayed as caring and protective towards Fauziya.
Fauziya's Father
Fauziya's father is initially portrayed as a traditionalist who expects Fauziya to comply with cultural norms, including undergoing FGM and entering into a forced marriage. However, as the story progresses, he undergoes a transformation and becomes more supportive of Fauziya's decision to escape and seek asylum.
Fauziya's Mother
Fauziya's mother is initially hesitant about Fauziya's decision to escape, fearing the consequences it may have on the family. However, she eventually becomes more supportive and encourages Fauziya to pursue her dreams and seek a better life.
Tante Fatou
Tante Fatou is Fauziya's aunt who lives in the United States. She provides Fauziya with a place to stay and emotional support upon her arrival. Tante Fatou serves as a mentor and guide for Fauziya as she navigates the asylum process and adjusts to life in a new country.
Judge Blane
Judge Blane is the immigration judge who presides over Fauziya's asylum case. He plays a pivotal role in determining her fate and whether she will be granted asylum. Judge Blane's character represents the legal system and the power to make life-changing decisions.
Layli Miller Bashir
Layli Miller Bashir is the co-author of the book and also serves as Fauziya's advocate throughout her legal battle. She provides legal support, guidance, and representation, fighting for Fauziya's rights and highlighting the injustices faced by women seeking asylum.
Character Traits
Fauziya Kassindja
- Courageous
- Determined
- Resilient
- Strong-willed
- Empathetic
Uncle Saeed
- Supportive
- Caring
- Protective
- Resourceful
Fauziya's Father
- Traditionalist (initially)
- Transformative
- Supportive
Fauziya's Mother
- Hesitant (initially)
- Supportive (later)
- Encouraging
Tante Fatou
- Mentor
- Supportive
- Nurturing
Judge Blane
- Authoritative
- Impartial
- Influential
Layli Miller Bashir
- Advocate
- Empathetic
- Tenacious
- Determined
Character Background
Fauziya Kassindja is a young woman from Togo, a country where female genital mutilation (FGM) is a deeply ingrained cultural practice. Fauziya's family expects her to undergo FGM and enter into a forced marriage, but she courageously decides to escape this fate and seek asylum in the United States. Her decision is driven by a desire for freedom and the opportunity to live a life of her choosing.
Uncle Saeed, Fauziya's father, and Fauziya's mother are all influenced by their cultural background and traditions. However, they undergo transformations as they witness Fauziya's determination and courage, ultimately becoming more supportive of her aspirations.
Tante Fatou, Fauziya's aunt, provides a safe haven for Fauziya upon her arrival in the United States. She offers emotional support and guidance, helping Fauziya navigate the challenges of seeking asylum and adjusting to a new culture.
Judge Blane represents the legal system and the authority that determines the outcome of Fauziya's asylum case. His decision holds significant weight in determining Fauziya's future.
Layli Miller Bashir, the co-author of the book, plays a crucial role as Fauziya's advocate. She fights for Fauziya's rights and sheds light on the struggles faced by women seeking asylum.
Character Arcs
Fauziya's character arc is one of personal growth and empowerment. She starts as a young woman facing immense challenges in her home country and evolves into a resilient individual determined to forge her own path. Fauziya's journey involves overcoming cultural expectations, navigating the legal system, and advocating for herself.
Uncle Saeed's character arc involves a shift from a traditionalist mindset to a more progressive viewpoint. Initially, he upholds cultural norms and expects Fauziya to comply. However, witnessing her determination and courage leads him to reevaluate his beliefs and become a more supportive figure in her life.
Fauziya's mother also experiences a character arc, transitioning from hesitation and concern for the family's well-being to becoming a supportive force for Fauziya's aspirations. She recognizes the importance of supporting her daughter's dreams and encourages her to pursue a better life.
Judge Blane's character arc is not as pronounced as the others. However, he possesses the power to decide Fauziya's fate, which creates a sense of tension and uncertainty throughout the book.
Layli Miller Bashir's character arc revolves around her role as Fauziya's advocate. She consistently fights for Fauziya's rights and exposes the injustices faced by women seeking asylum.
Relationships
The relationships between the characters in "Do They Hear You When You Cry" play a significant role in shaping the narrative and Fauziya's journey.
Fauziya's relationship with Uncle Saeed is one of trust and support. He becomes her ally, assisting her in her escape from Togo and providing emotional support throughout her journey.
The relationship between Fauziya and her parents evolves throughout the book. Initially, their expectations clash with Fauziya's desires, but over time, they become more understanding and supportive of her decision to seek asylum.
Fauziya's bond with Tante Fatou is one of mentorship and guidance. Tante Fatou offers Fauziya a place to stay, emotional support, and acts as a guide as she navigates the asylum process and adjusts to life in the United States.
The relationship between Fauziya and Judge Blane is one of power dynamics. Judge Blane holds the authority to decide Fauziya's fate, creating tension and uncertainty throughout the book.
Layli Miller Bashir's relationship with Fauziya is one of advocacy and support. She fights tirelessly for Fauziya's rights and becomes a mentor figure, guiding her through the legal battle.
Overall, the relationships in the book highlight the importance of support, understanding, and the power dynamics that influence Fauziya's journey to seek asylum and create a better life for herself.
