Wafin: Moroccan Connections in America is a site that allows Moroccan Americans (and friends of Morocco) to connect virtually.  The site also assists with various other aspects of life such as jobs, real estate and networking.

Today I came across an article entitled Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Came to the U.S.  My immediate reaction was “what a great idea.”  Too often in Morocco did I hear America being glorified as “the best country in the world” with little regard to the problems that plague the United States.  Sure, Moroccans are certainly aware of possible discrimination in this post-9/11 environment, and most realize that they’ll have to start at the bottom, but the lure of opportunity is strong.

Although the article is short, reading through the comments demonstrates what Moroccans really feel after residing in the U.S. for some time.  Whether it’s the unspoken rules (don’t pick up and kiss random children) or the seemingly obvious (hot dogs almost always have pork), this article and its comments are a great resource for Moroccans living in or considering immigration to the United States.

A Moroccan toddler had to live with his aunt for two years, apparently because his name, Ahmed Yassine, is similar to that of an alleged terrorist (this was edited for my lack of reading ability). The AP story can be found here, among other places.

I probably shouldn’t say too much about USCIS, but yikes. Once we’re in the States, I’ll comment further.