Q13 News Special: Local Muslims share stories of faith, service and sacrifice

SEATTLE -- As part of a special series, “Q13 News This Morning” is sharing the stories of local Muslim Americans who are working to make our communities – and our country – a better and safer place.

Discriminated against for wearing a traditional headscarf, called a “hijab,” 19-year-old Hikma Sherka’s mother inspired her to pursue a career as a civil rights attorney.

“American Muslim youth have a right to the same aspirations and dreams as every other American,” she said.

Motivated by trips to homeless camps with her family to feed the needy, 23-year-old Nehath Sheriff, of Sammamish, set out to end health disparities by opening a free clinic inside a Redmond mosque.

“Being raised as a Muslim American, we’re always taught to give back to the community in any way that we can,” she said.

Inspired by his grandfather and father, Khalid Lites, of Shoreline, knew he, too, would serve our nation in the U.S. Army. Three of his siblings also answered the call to serve their country.

“I knew I wanted to help people and I wanted to give back,” he said.