The Austin chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Austin), along with the University of Texas Professors and the Interfaith community, today mourned Dr. Qusay Hussein (1988-2025) who passed away on June 14th , 2025, at the age of 36, leaving a great legacy of resilience, service, and advocacy, and invited everyone to his memorial event this Friday.
Dr. Hussein was a motivational speaker, a research and teaching assistant at the University of Texas, and an avid advocate for refugees and people with disabilities. Qusay lost his sight and suffered multiple injuries that required 67 reconstructive surgeries after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and the subsequent instability. While receiving his medical treatment in Jordan, he worked with Doctors Without Borders as a patient counselor helping other war-surviving patients. In 2012, Qusay found his dream in the U.S. After studying English and earning his GED, he joined the University of Texas in Austin and earned a bachelor’s, a Master’s, and a PhD of Social Work. Dr. Hussein also served on several committees and boards, including the Association Committee for Doctors Without Borders, the Advisory Committee for Refugee Services of Texas, The Interfaith Action of Central Texas, and the UT Austin Student Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities.
READ: I Was Given A Second Chance – The Guardian
Dr. Hussein’s Memoir: Can You Open My Eyes
CAIR-Austin invites everyone to attend Dr. Hussein’s memorial event to honor him and his legacy
WHAT: Dr. Qusay Hussein’s Memorial Event
WHERE: North Austin Muslim Community Center (NAMCC), Main Hall
ADDRESS: 11900 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
WHEN: Friday, June 20th, 7:00-8:30 PM
In a statement, Shaimaa Zayan, CAIR Austin Operations Manager, said:
“Qusay’s short life was a powerful testament to the resilience, strength, and contributions of refugees. His journey was one of healing, service, and uplifting others as he turned his personal adversity into a legacy. Tragically, Qusay’s passing comes at a time when refugees and immigrants are suffering relentless attacks and dehumanization. His life ended before he could witness the justice and dignity that he, and many other refugees, so deeply deserve. We extend our deepest condolences to his beloved ones and invite everyone to attend his memorial event this Friday.”
In a statement, Dr. Sandy Magaña, Dr. Hussein’s Dissertation Chair said:
“As Dr. Qusay Hussein studied in our programs at UT, he mentored other students through friendship, encouragement, and love. Dr. Hussein was determined from the beginning to become a PhD so he could support and motivate others on a broader scale. He lived on a day-to-day basis, uplifting others and staying positive despite his challenges. Beside his impressive academic and organizational accomplishments, he trained for and ran a half-marathon, had the experience of driving a car, and started a nonprofit organization to support individuals with disabilities in Iraq. His legacy will inspire generations to come.”
“Dr. Hussein was a beacon of resilience, purpose, and compassion. His journey inspired all who met him, and his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. We at the Interfaith Action of Central Texas (iACT) are honored to have been part of his story, and we mourn his passing with deep sorrow and profound gratitude,” said Simone Flowers, iACT Executive Director.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Shaimaa Zayan, CAIR Austin Operations Manager, 512-785-7105, shaimaa.zayan@cairtx.org; Dr. Sandy Magaña, UT Austin School of Social Work, smagana@austin.utexas.edu