The PennZone

PHILADELPHIA - PennZone -- Former DEI officer and American Friends Service Committee executive, Raquel Saraswati, who made international headlines in February for allegedly misrepresenting her identity, looks to continue her civil rights work after being vindicated by multiple DNA tests.

"Few can understand the complexities of dealing with deeply personal issues on an international scale," says Saraswati. "I have been subjected to malicious distortions and in some cases wildly falsified accusations about my work, my Muslim faith, and my identity. No person should have complex and painful private matters turned into public spectacles. Such an act is abusive and reckless."

Saraswati completed three independent and extensive DNA tests, which were reviewed and verified by Dr. Jayne Bird of Philadelphia. "Raquel has been my regular patient since 2018. As a dermatologist, I classify her skin type as Fitzpatrick Skin Type 4, meaning she has light brown/olive skin color. Natural skin color is determined by genetics and skin type often represents a blend of ethnicities. Her DNA includes the following ethnicities, among others: North African (close to 40%), West Asian, Greek and South Italian (these two are grouped as one category representing approximately 6% of Raquel's DNA). Low amounts (<5%) of Nigerian and other ethnicities are also present. Based on this genetic testing and my observations, it is clearly established that she is skin type 4 and skin of color."

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The former American Friends Service Committee executive had recently completed a DEI audit of the organization which summarized findings from over 300 interviews, a staff survey and a comprehensive desk review. Days before she was to release the report, anonymous individuals launched a public attack which ultimately led to her resignation. Saraswati was hired by the AFSC following a rigorous five-month hiring process.

"As a child born out of an extramarital affair and a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, I affirm the right of all people to self-determination – it is my God-given right to pursue, embrace and celebrate the truth of my personhood. We are each the experts on our own lives. Anonymous, troubled, or unscrupulous individuals are not. Sadly, this extends to some biological and non-biological family members, including my own mother. Like some other family members, I made the decision to walk away decades ago, and this ordeal has reminded me that I made the right decision. While I hope that all parties find peace, I continue to be on a healing journey which deserves privacy and care. I look forward to resuming my work serving marginalized communities and ensuring a safe and truly inclusive workplace for everyone."