The Sharafoddin Family: Navigating Life in the US Amidst the Travel Ban
About the People Mentioned
Mohammad Sharafoddin
Mohammed Sharafuddin is a scholar and author specializing in English and Comparative Literature, currently a professor at Sana'a University in Yemen. He is notably recognized for his work on Orientalism and its intersections with Islamic culture and literature. Sharafuddin authored the book *Islam and Romantic Orientalism* (published by I.B. Tauris), which explores the representation of Islam in Western Romantic literature and critiques orientalist perspectives[1][5]. His academic interests include critical theory, Marxism, and literary analysis, with research engagement in figures such as Fredric Jameson and topics like Critical Realism[2]. Sharafuddin has contributed to discussions on cultural and literary encounters between the Orient and the West, particularly through his exploration of how Islamic subjects have been depicted in Western literary traditions. In addition to his literary scholarship, there is a Mohammed Sharafuddin known for roles in filmmaking, with credits in productions such as *A Chance* (2020), *Fishbowl*, and *Thiqah* (2018), though this appears to be a different individual sharing the same name[3]. Sharafuddin's current relevance lies in his academic role and contributions to postcolonial and orientalist studies, particularly in the Arab and Islamic context. His work continues to be cited in literary and cultural studies for its critical perspective on Western representations of Islam and the Orient. No recent specific events related to his activities or publications were found in the available sources.
About the Organizations Mentioned
IRMO
IRMO (Indoamerican Refugee and Migrant Organisation) is a UK-based community-led charity dedicated to supporting Latin Americans and other Spanish and Portuguese-speaking migrants, including refugees and asylum seekers. Established in 1982 originally as Chile Democrático by Chilean political refugees, IRMO has grown over four decades to become a pivotal organization providing comprehensive, culturally sensitive services tailored to the unique needs of its community[1][2][4]. IRMO offers a broad range of front-line services, including confidential advice and casework on immigration, welfare benefits, housing, healthcare access, education, and employment. It also runs educational and vocational programs such as English classes, mentoring, and employability workshops, alongside youth programs supporting children’s schooling and social integration. These services are delivered in Spanish and Portuguese, informed by the lived experiences of those they serve, ensuring accessibility and relevance[1][2][5]. The organization’s history reflects its adaptive response to changing community needs. From its roots aiding political refugees, IRMO expanded in 2000 to represent the wider Latin American migrant population in London and the UK, particularly following the 2008 European economic recession that spurred increased migration. IRMO has played a crucial role in advocacy and systemic change, joining forces with other Latin American groups in the UK to amplify the community’s voice. During the COVID-19 pandemic, IRMO notably expanded its support, providing vital health information and specialized services for vulnerable individuals[2]. Financially, IRMO operates with an income of over £820,000 (2023-24), funded largely by government grants and donations, employing 19 staff and supported by volunteers. Its charitable expenditure focuses heavily on direct community services, emphasizing transparency, collaboration, solidarity, and social justice as core values[3]. In 2022, IRMO refurbished its community centre, enhancing its capacity to serve, and rebranded in 2024 with a new website to better engage its audience. Its ongoing commitment positions IRMO
