I
have been here for 8 years now. I came back in 2000 when I was 16.
I got a job 3 days later then met my wife. We got married almost 3
years ago. I applied for my residency in November and got my appointment
for my fingerprints and pictures a month after got my work permit.
I have my interview February 28. I'm so nervous. I hope they don't
send me back to Mexico. I don't have felonies or anything, just a
lot of speeding tickets and a suspended license. That's about it.
Can they still send me back even if I got a work permit and a social
number already?
Juan
C.
Madison, WI
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comments to this posting HERE
My
brother was born in Yugoslavia. In 1967 we entered the USA as immigrants.
On November 30 1971, received legal permanent status since childhood
he was under the age of 18 when our dad naturalized in 1983. He is
married to a US citizen and has 2 kids 11 and 13 that are USA citizens.
His son was born handicapped with a diaphragmatic hernia. My brother
has never been outside the USA since arriving in 1971. He's been here
for over 37 yrs. On June 20, 2000 he received a final order of deportation.
He knows nothing about the country he came from don't even know the
language. He has to check with immigration 5 times a month also has
to wear an ankle bracelet on his leg, also has to call voice recognition
every 25th of the month. We wasted over 30,000 dollars on immigration
attorneys and none of them did nothing. He worked very hard for his
money. We are at a dead end. INS tells him he is stateless at this
time because Yugoslavia doesn't recognize him as a citizen. Please
help if anyone knows a good attorney or advice, thank you. God bless.
TM
FLA
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My
brother has been in the US since he was 1 year old. In his 20s he
committed a felony but he paid his debt to society. He made a mistake
and learned from it. He got 4 years in prison. Now that he is doing
good and got his life together, immigration decided to give him a
final order of deportation. It's pretty sad when God can forgive you
but the USA can't. I love my brother and I hope God will help all
of you to just keep praying. Don't give up.
God
be with us
Florida
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A COMMENT
My
family, which includes my mother, father, my three sisters, and me,
moved to the United States from Mexico when I was 4. My sisters were
8 and 2. My youngest sister was born after we arrived, so she is a
legal American. The rest of my family was on a temporary visa for
90 days. We lived in a motel for about a month while my parents struggled
to find a job. My mother found work first as a maid at a hotel that
was a 20 mile commute. We didn't have a car, and we couldn't afford
for her to take a cab every day, so we took a bus to town in search
of somewhere close enough to my mother’s work that she could
walk to it. We found an old abandoned apartment that had no heat.
We moved in there because it was only a 5 minute walk to my mother's
job. My siblings and I struggled with the language. We could only
speak a few words of English, but my mother and father had learned
the language before leaving Mexico. My father eventually found a job
as a janitor. We had applied for permanent Visa's and after a long
wait, we all had one. My mother and father got better paying jobs
after a while and sent us to school, were we where constantly made
fun of, but we still wanted to go so we could learn. We felt so privileged
even though we didn't have much. We moved out of the apartment and
into a better one, even though it took us a while to find one because
no one wanted to sell an apartment to Mexicans. It has been a hard
journey, but we made it.
Cristinia
Austin, Texas
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A COMMENT
My
husband and I arrived here in 2001 as tourists. With 4 children in
tow, we sought ways of becoming legal permanent residents. He found
a job that did not even ask him for his legal documents. The bosses
liked him and pretty soon, he got raise after raise. My husband was
scared of asking his employer to sponsor his working visa. I, on the
other hand was lucky enough to find a company who sponsored me. The
downside? I have to commute 75 miles one way everyday. In 2005, my
husband was caught. His lawyer then advised him to plead for voluntary
departure. He left for the Philippines in May 2006. I took an offer
from a company that my colleagues warned me against. The company was
notorious for their very strict regulations and was known to fire
employees left and right. Just before I could file for the I-485,
I got laid off. Being without a husband is bad enough. Facing foreclosure
is even worse. I can t afford the house payments anymore and have
sell the house. My realtor said it will be tough and seems like foreclosure
is inevitable.
Cristina
San Diego, CA
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A COMMENT
I
was born in Mexico brought to the US when I was two. I now am a US
citizen and I have married an illegal immigrant. My husband has his
interview next month and now I find out that because my husband was
in the USA for six years and he left back to Mexico (he was not deported)
he may be punished for ten years!! I have talked to numerous lawyers
and they have told me that my lawyer screwed us up because of the
way he submitted the application he is not coming back.(His exact
words) Do the immigration office or the lawyers know how it is for
your life to be on hold because the other half of you is not there?
Do they know how it feels when our kids ask when is daddy coming home??
Or you can't even plan on having another baby, buy a house, nothing.
All my daughter and I do now is plan on when are we going to Mexico
to see him. It's unfair, unfair, unfair!! (Sorry I'm just upset) Maybe
that is why most of the illegal immigrants in the USA don't want to
fix their papers. They don't want to be separated from there families,
and don't even mention the cost of all of this. But we must have faith.
Maybe one day ever yone of these stories I have read will end up a
Happy Ending including mine!!! GOOD LUCK TO ALL I will keep you in
my prayers... And maybe someday it will be better...
Erika
Lancaster, CA
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A COMMENT
My
fiancé is from Poland. She has been here for almost five years
fighting with immigration to be a permanent resident. She went through
medical testing twice. All procedures twice. She first got married
to someone else who abused her. She recently won battered spouse and
was issued work permission this last year of 2007. She had an appointment
for her green card on 1-10-08. Her lawyer had been working on these
cases for almost two years now. When we arrived for her interview
they told her she was on deportation status since 2004. Her lawyer
had no clue. How is it that immigration can approve work permission,
approve battered spouse, schedule a green card appointment, and nobody
knew about deportation for over four years? The 1-800 number said
nothing about this, the website had no info about this, the lawyer
didn't even know about this. She is a person of very good stature,
never been arrested, and did everything immigration wanted. She has
held a job for over two and half years. Now she is waiting for court.
Polska
Orlando, FL
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A COMMENT
My
mother was recently sent to get her visa at Ciudad Juarez and has
been told that a final decision will be mailed out to her. I now find
myself very lonely without her and sometimes wish my parents would've
stayed in Mexico to raise us. Now we have to live with the laws of
this "wonderful" country. My father is a United States Citizen
but apparently you have to be a rich citizen to have rights in this
country. "United" States, doesn't this also count for families
being united? Young and old couples are being separated. This country
needs to fix itself.
Lonely
daughter
El Paso, TX
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A COMMENT
My
husband was detained in June by immigration. My son is now 1 ½.
We just built a house. I pushed for us to live for our future even
though we were in proceedings. I never dreamed my country would do
this to us. I thought we would win. We didn't. My husband made a minor
mistake in 1996 but wasn't sentenced until 1997, to probation. He
has not been in trouble since. He was here legally for 23 years and
at 40 he is in jail and being taken from his son and wife, both citizens.
Not only do I need to figure out how to raise my son and keep a roof
over his head but raise him as a proud American after they took his
Daddy away. How? We are supposed to be the greatest country. They
torture these people by locking them up for as long as they want just
because they were not born here. Death would be less painful. I am
not a proud American and we are just yet another number. Murderers
and rapist are on the streets. Great country huh.
Suddenly
single mom
Rhode Island
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comments to this posting HERE
I'm
an older person and I cried like a baby today! For almost 25 years,
I have had no record of any crime! The board of immigration appeals
turned me down again to reopen my case, the ground is timing! The
law has given the BIA the authority to use discretion in exceptional
circumstances about timing. The decision said my case does not fall
into the exceptional categories! My life has been destroyed in this
country! I have been trapped in no return for so many years, no family,
no career with a master's degree! Where are the good people in this
nation? Why my life has to be wasted on technicality!!!!!
Aris
NY
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A COMMENT
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I
met my husband in 2001. We got married and have 3 beautiful daughters
all under the age of 5. Last year he went to Ciudad Juarez to get
his green card and was denied. Now I'm here alone being mami and papi
for my girls. My husband is not able to come back until 2016. Me being
a US citizen, I have to go and live in Mexico to be with my husband.
What else can I do? He deserves to see his daughters grow up and they
deserve to be with their daddy. He wants to be in his daughters' lives.
They just won't let him.
Anna
Alvarez
Farmington, New Mexico
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A COMMENT
I
was born in a small town in Idaho and later moved to Boise to attend
college. I met my beautiful wife there and later got married. We both
graduated and we have a 4 month old daughter. My life and choices
that I must make are extremely stressful as I do not have monetary
and credit support from my wife. Not only that, I have been accepted
into medical school and find it extremely challenging to continue
without first helping my wife. The thing is she may have to leave
the country for an unknown amount of time. What then is a father who
has dreams to pursue his medical education to do with a 4 month old
baby with no mother to assist in raising her?
AR
Boise, ID
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A COMMENT
In
1995 my parents brought me to the U.S. with my little brother of 5
months. Me being 5 years old, I didn't know anything. I've been going
to school here ever since that day and I’ve almost graduated
from high school. And still an illegal immigrant who is in love with
a U.S citizen and wanting to get married in the future. But I’m
afraid to file for a chance to be somebody in this country because
of my high chance of being deported. I mean I have everything here,
my family and friends! I’m only a 17 year old girl not knowing
what to do! I shouldn’t have to be thinking of this so much!
All I want is to be successful in this world and have a family but
this is putting a pause in my life...
J.
Valenzuela
Los Banos, California
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A COMMENT
I
was brought to this country illegally when I was six years old. I
have done all my schooling (currently enrolled in a Community College)
here in the U.S. I have never been to Mexico (where I was born) nor
do I have contact with anyone there. I do speak Spanish. I am a single
parent of a three year old son. I own my own home. I am trying to
make a better future for my son and myself. I don't have a chance
of becoming legal in this country. I've been told that I either have
to get married to a citizen or wait until my son is 21 and submits
an application for me. I am a good person trying to make a living
and trying to give my son a good example. My only crime has been that
I was too young to object to the fact that my parents brought me illegally.
(They too are still in my situation).
Yadira
Joliet, IL
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
It's
sad when a three year old knows that his dad can't go with him because
(his own words) "my papi doesn't have papers". That's what
my now 5 year old said the first time I took him to Mexico. My husband
has been in the U.S.A since he was 17 yrs old. It's hard to read what
your 14 year old daughter wrote on this website about how worried
she is about her father and his legal status. A 14 year old shouldn't
have to worry about her father being arrested for the sole reason
that he was born on the wrong side of the fence. We have asked if
I could file a petition for him, but if I do he would have to go out
of the country for up to 10 years. How are we going to be able to
raise our children with me here and him in Mexico? Something needs
to be done to help all of us families. It breaks my heart to read
how many families are being affected by this.
Alma
Phoenix, AZ
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A COMMENT
I
am a 35 year old mother of two wonderful boys (5and 9) and a beautiful
smart 14 year old daughter. My parents brought me to California from
Mexico when I was 11 yrs old. Thanks to the Amnesty in 1986 my dad
was able to get his illegal status fixed and he became a legal resident
in 1988. At that time he filed a petition for me, my mom and my two
brothers. They were granted their resident card in 1994. I wasn't
because I turned 18 in the process, making me an adult and I was placed
in a different category. That was so hard for me because up until
then I hadn't figured out the difference that little card makes. It's
being 4 years since I finally got my resident card. My daughter and
I worry every day about my husband not coming home after work, because
we live in Phoenix, AZ and Arpaio is the sheriff and he is out to
get all the undocumented people. My husband has been here since he
was 16 years old. He has lived here more years than in Mexico. He
is a hard working man and a model citizen, but to the police here
he is a criminal because of that little card that makes all the difference
in the world.
Mom
Arizona
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A COMMENT
I
am a 14 year old girl born in Los Angeles, California. My dad is an
illegal. He is the father of three children and has a loving wife.
My youngest brother is so attached to him. His compadre has already
been deported and I worry that my dad could be next. I see the drop
house stories on TV and I get scared. I love my dad and it wouldn't
just tear my heart out but it would destroy my family. Everyday I
worry if my dad is going to come home. Yes he has a MEXICAN driver's
license but that isn't valid anymore. He and our family are always
living in fear that they might take him. Is there anyone that knows
what to do?
Gladys
Arizona
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A COMMENT
My
parents brought me to the US when I was 13 years old. We had a great
life in Colombia, but were forced to leave our country after my father
was kidnapped and my mother attacked and threatened. We applied for
refugee status in the US through the course of 7 years, to get denied
one last time and get orders of deportation. At 18, I married my boyfriend
of 2 years. My mother and brother moved to Canada, and my father had
to keep working illegally in order to support all of us. 2 years later,
I filed for divorce because this man I thought I knew turned out violent
and unfaithful. I came looking for refugee in Canada and my case is
pending. Before making it here I had to live in a shelter for refugees
in Buffalo, NY for 1 month. This morning at 3a.m., my father was trying
to join with us, and got caught in New York and was put in a non-Spanish
speaking county jail, and we don't know for how long. My father is
the most honest, kind, loyal, and pure man I know. I fear for him
in jail... and I can't believe someone like him has to go through
this. I don't understand. Whoever reads this, please say a prayer
for him.
Nathalia
Miami, Florida
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A COMMENT
I
am a US citizen married to a wonderful amazing man for 6 years now.
My husband came here when he was 6 and was not told he was an "illegal"
until 17 years of age when he was about to get his license. Talk about
cruel. He was brought here legally under a visa but, it was lost through
the years. He is so intelligent and has so much to offer; it isn't
fair that he was brought here as a baby and now he has to suffer until
someone with half a brain passes a decent immigration reform. I would
be lost without him and I really feel that if this issue isn't resolved
soon then I am going to have to leave my family/life to give him enough
courage to move back to Columbia and live a decent carefree life there.
I have been to the best lawyers that say there is nothing we can do.
I feel for all of the hardworking Americans mistaken for criminals.
A piece of paper doesn't make you an American, your beliefs, culture,
language and heart does. My husband has been in this country for 22
years and still can't drive a car, work decently, go to college and
feel comfortable having children without worrying about the kind of
life/position he could put them in. How could God place such a wonderful
humanitarian in a terrible position like this? Well, I am not going
without a fight! No way, over my dead body that he is being taken
away from me.
Maina
NJ
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I
married my husband in 2004. He is an illegal immigrant and we decided
to get his papers. We have a beautiful 2 year old girl. He was sent
back to Mexico in May for an appointment and they told him that there
wasn't enough hardship information and said they would look over the
case and contact us in 30 days. That was over 4 months ago. I miss
him so much and every day my little girl cries for her daddy. I think
it is so wrong that a little piece of paper is the only thing keeping
him from us. I wish the president was put in our positions so that
he would see what it is like not to be able to be with the love of
your life. I wish there was something I could do to get him back but
I don't even know where to start.
Valerie
Louisville, KY
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A COMMENT
I
am a 25 year old female with two children ages 4 and 6. I was suppose
to get married this May 27, 2007 until immigration picked up my fiance
on October 27, 2005 for something that he did in 1999. Since 1999
he never got into trouble. He was detained until May 27th 2006 when
they deported him. My children and I have been so devastated. My children
cry every day for their father. All they do is pray for him to come
home. My kids asked Santa last year and they are asking again this
year for nothing but their dad. It's so hard. My youngest is so depressed
and now he is having behavioral problems. He is even on medication
now. The president doesn't know how much he is ruining these kids
life and not only my children but so many others too.
Sandy
Providence, Rhode Island
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A COMMENT
My
husband was detained in May 07 and taken to Steward Detention Center
for 6 months. My family and other families like mine are fighting
with Immigration to stay together. I just want to let everyone know
to never give up and to do your own research on your loved one’s
case. My family and I are so blessed because we fought Immigration
and WON. My husband is home where he belongs and he soon will be a
CITIZEN. SO BLESS EVERYONE AND NEVER GIVE UP.
Brenda
Coradin
Stone Mountain, GA
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I'm
a high school a senior about to graduate and I have no immigration
papers. My mom brought me here when I was a newborn and I have been
here for 18 yrs. I'm married to a U.S. citizen and I have a beautiful
baby boy. My husband wants to fix my papers but I'm scared that they
are going to want me to go back to Mexico. I just want an opportunity
to go to college, have a career, to provide for my son, and make my
family proud. I just want that one chance. I'm going to school and
have never had problems with the law. All my teachers adore me. Not
all illegal immigrants are the same. Some of us are just trying to
live out our dreams. Please help me since the DREAM ACT FAILED. PLEASE
TELL ME WHAT TO DO.
Amy
El Paso, TX
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
My husband
was just deported two weeks ago and we have a 6 month old daughter.
I am a U.S. citizen and it's unbelievable that we as citizens cannot
do anything to get our husbands back. These laws have to change. My
husband is a wonderful father and hard working man.
Ana
Somerville, MA
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A COMMENT
I've
been here since 1983; I was 6 months old at that time. My mother brought
me here from Tijuana, Baja California. I went 10 years thinking that
I was an American. One day my mother broke the story to me and my
jaw fell. The person that I thought I was, was nothing but a lie.
Now 24 years later, my situation is the same. I am an illegal alien
from Mexico. I have 3 sisters all born here. I am married to my wonderful
wife of 2 years. I owe her a lot, a woman that strong who puts up
with my situation are scarce in this world. I feel so bad keeping
her from the things she can do... travel, invest, buy a home, have
kids. I never thought this could happen to me, but it did and this
is the outcome. We've talked to a few lawyers and they all say the
same thing; go to Mexico and wait to see what happens. I don t know
how I can do that. My Spanish is terrible, I have no family in Mexico,
and I can t bear to leave my wife and family. I've strongly considered
taking my life so that I could finally breathe without worry, even
if it would be my last. All my friends and family travel when they
want to and have great jobs. I on the other hand can t find a decent
job. The weird thing is that I know what I want and how to get it.
But my situation will not let me accomplish it.
Jose
Los Angeles, CA
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
My husband
came to the United States illegally from Honduras after Hurricane
Mitch and had been here for several years before we met in October
of 01. We were married in May of 02 and then began our long journey
for him to become legal. We filed the I-130 in June of 02 and waited
until November of 03 for it to be approved. It took about another
year for the National Visa Center to finish their part of the process
and for us to get our appointment at the Visa office in Honduras.
We knew that we would be denied and would have to file a waiver. We
had it ready and turned it in the same day. It was denied about 8
1/2 months later. We filed a motion to re-open and they kept it for
6 months and then refused to accept it and told us to file a new waiver
altogether and do all the medical exams over and pay all the fees
again for the third time. So we did and finally after 2 years and
3 months of my husband being stuck in Honduras and paying out thousands
and thousands of dollars were we finally approved and my husband could
come home legally. Some Americans want to gripe and moan about how
many are here illegally, but the fact is most who try can't come here
legally. You don't just get paperwork because you married a citizen
of the United States. Our economy can't survive without people to
do the work most Americans think they are too good to do. Americans
need to know the facts about our immigration system before they badmouth
so many others.
Thernand
Lincoln, Arkansas
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A COMMENT
I'm
a U.S. citizen and my husband is a Mexican Citizen. He's been here
for almost 10 years we have one son together who is 1 year old. My
husband came here illegally because of the situation over there, it's
hard to make a living. His dad past away when he was 8 years old and
he's the oldest of 4 brothers so he had no choice but to do something,
so he came here. He's hard working and a good person. We've talked
with many immigration lawyers and all say the same thing: to wait
because it's too risky when they interview them in Ciudad Juarez.
They can approve a waiver (but there's not guarantee) but if they
don't he has to stay in Mexico for 10 years! My son and I love him
and I can't imagine being away from him for that long. All we can
do is pray to God that the laws will change and bring 245-I back and
to stop those deportations!
Patty
Franklin Park, IL
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I am
a U.S. citizen born and raised in Stockton, California. I petitioned
for my husband whom I married in Pakistan, and finally when he had
his visa after 2 years, he was detained by security at the San Francisco
airport. They did not let my husband leave the security check at the
airport, revoked his immigration visa, and said he would be deported.
The next day they said he had committed identity theft because his
identity matched someone else. They sent him back after a few days
to the Korean airport were they just left him with no ticket to get
back home like he was some criminal. An injustice has been done upon
my husband. Homeland Security has no proof that he is a criminal or
that he has committed identity theft. He was petitioned legally by
me. I am a United States citizen and was issued a legal visa for him.
I also contacted the Pakistan embassy and they said that he was issued
a legal visa to the U.S.A. Please, if there is anything you can do
to help me or give me some advice I would gladly appreciate it.
Nausret
Khan
Stockton, CA
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I am
a U.S. citizen and I fell in love with an Albanian. We are getting
married but my dream was to marry him here with my family. The government
is telling me I can't because I just finished college and didn't make
enough money these past 4 years to bring him here. I don't know what
to do and am very frustrated to figure out how to get him here. We
want to do everything legal but this country makes it impossible.
If anyone knows anything that I can do to get him here please help
me. I am at the end of my rope trying to figure out how to get my
fiancé here so that we can pursue our lives here instead of
Albania!
Melissa
New York
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A COMMENT
My husband
was brought to the US when he was 2 years old and his mother never
fixed his papers. We have been married for 3 years and have 2 kids
and another one on the way. I've been wanting to fix his papers but
I'm afraid to. And I'm afraid that they might send him back to Mexico.
I dont know what he'll do if they were to send him to Mexico. He has
no family over there that he knows of. Is there any other way or form
I can fill out so that they wont send him back and give him permission
to work while we file?
ANR
Houston, Texas
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I met
my husband in 1998. He is from Honduras. We were married in 2001.
I knew before we started tring to fix his immigration problems that
he was deported previously. I applied for relief for him under section
245i. The lawyer that helped us with this was aware of his prior removal.
My husband was given a work permit for 5 years. ICE detained my husband
and told him that he was not eligible for any type of relief since
he had a prior removal. My questions are: Why did the lawyer apply
for relief if he wasn't eligible for it? Why did the US government
give him relief for 5 years while our application was pending? I understand
that what my husband did by EWI was illegal but does the government
know that there are children that are involved? We pay our taxes yearly
for personal and monthly (we own our own business). We own our own
homes, cars, etc. Good citizens of the community. We do not rely on
the government for anytype of assistance. Does anyone know what it
is like to hear your kids say that their papi doesn't love them because
he left without saying goodbye? I just wish someone would understand
that I can not help with whom I fell in love with.
Suffering
in Hillsborough County
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A COMMENT
When
I was 6 years old my mom brought me to the USA legally with a tourist
visa which in that time around 1979 was also a passport. I married
my wife who is a US citizen and she sent a petition for me which was
approved by immigration. The only problem is that I need to prove
to immigration that I entered here legally, which I did, and that
my visa got lost many years ago. We have been trying to find that
visa number or a copy of something. The problem is that supposedly
in that time info wasn't stored in computers. So we can't find that
information and here I am stuck. If someone knows how to solve this,
please help. Thanks.
Ed
Houston, Texas
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A COMMENT
My parents
are from Mexico, my mother was from a big family of 18. My father
came from a family of 6. Both lived in poverty struggling very young
trying make some money to bring home. My mother crossed the border
when she was only 15 years old by herself. I am glad that back then
there was not a whole lot of anti-immigrant sentiment or else she'd
probably had gotten shot or worse, raped. She was lucky to have found
a nice American family where she became their nanny, then she moved
on. She made friends at the resturant she worked in so she kept in
touch with her family in Mexico sending money as much as she could.
My father was about 22 years old when he came and he came in a train.
He came to Chicago and that's where my parents eventually met. They
had four daughters and my parents although sometimes struggled with
two jobs at a time were able to buy a house. My mother would always
remind us of how lucky we were to live here, and have food, water,
a roof over our heads. She said that we should always appreciate what
we have and never take things for granted. So very true. I was very
lucky to have been born here in the U.S. and I fell in love with my
husband a very hard working man that is responsible in supporting
his family in Mexico including our family (two children) that we have.
But there is a law that prevents me from him ever becoming legally
here. It is the punishment of ten yrs. and it makes it so hard for
families and it tears them apart. I have gone to several lawyers and
organizations. They all tell me the same thing. That there is nothing
I can do. I cannot submit paperwork for him because he will have the
ten yr. punishment. He entered the country illegally when he was only
fourteen by himself and started working in the fields in California.
That way he was able to help his parents, and has been doing it ever
since. He was caught by the migra once and left voluntarily to Mexico.
He came back and has been here ever since. That was 13yrs ago. We
now have two children a 1yr. old & a 4yr. old,and a house. He
owns a small business. Again I have been told to wait for a reform
or for the 245I waiver. The waiver would allow your spouse to stay
in the country without the removal process/10 yr. punishment. Anybody
have any suggestions on what I can do? I thought I was the only one
in this situation but many people are in the same situation. I have
a suggestion. We should call our Senators and Congressmen to put the
245I waiver in effect again. Now that they failed to pass any type
of reform. I hope those people touch their hearts and realize how
much children are suffering because of these broken laws that are
now breaking our families apart. We are a broken nation living like
this.
Viviana
Illinois
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A COMMENT
My Argentine
husband was deported while we were dating. We were married in Argentina
in 2003 and have been waiting for a visa appointment since. We are
applying for a waiver of his sentence (a 10 year bar on entering the
country just for overstaying, no criminal problems and 5 years already
served). Because immigration law is so complicated (especially in
our case) we've been delayed more than the average person. Our first
two attorneys took our money and did nothing for 3 years. The second
I had to sue so he'd call me back. Unfortunately, immigration attorneys
are notoriously corrupt. When I went to the Los Angeles USCIS building
to ask questions as to how the process would go (what forms and when),
the agent handed back my paperwork with the sole reply of "We
barely approve these cases." I know that we are riding on a long
shot, but I came for information, not for opinion. We lived 2.5 years
in Tijuana, just so that we could live together. This January I couldn't
stand crossing the border anymore (for 2.5 years my life was spent
working and in traffic) and he went back to Argentina and I returned
to my home in San Diego. We have been separated ever since. We want
babies, we want to make a home, we want to be able to kiss each other
goodnight....but for now, I sleep in a twin bed with our dog Luna,
and will continue to wait with daily phone calls as our only consolation.
No marriage should begin this way.
Kate
Reifers
San Diego, CA
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A COMMENT
My parents
are immigrents as well as half of my family. When I see the immigration
things on t.v I get really scared because sometimes I think that they
will come to my house & take them. Sometimes I can't even sleep.
Denise
Los Angeles, CA
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A COMMENT
I'm
married to a wonderful man from Honduras. On July 6, 2007 Immigration
came to our house and took him. They are going to deport him back
to Honduras. I dont know what to do. I have little money and I'm limited
on what I can do. If anyone knows how I can get my husband back, please
tell me.
Linda
Pinellas Park , FL
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A COMMENT
I arrived
in Miami in October 1961 and went to the Kendall camp. I remember
having to sleep in Army cots in the begining. From there a group of
us were sent to a camp in Florida City. There accomodations were better
until we were told that we were leaving for "a place" in
Saginaw Michigan. Turned out to be an orphanage [St. Vincent]. I was
lucky that my parents arrived in 1962 and I was able to be reunited
with them in Miami. I have good and bad memories, but mostly I thank
my parents every day that they sent me to a place where I could live
as a free man.
Miguel
Pelayo
Miami, FL
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A COMMENT
My husband
is a resident of the U.S. He came to the United States when he was
12 years old from the Dominican Republic. He made a mistake in 1982
and served probation for 6 months on weekends. When he went to renew
his green card a year later, he received a letter from immigration
to review some papers. When he went to their offices, he was detained
by ICE. My husband is a hard working man. We paid taxes, own our home,
and are involved in our community. I am desperate. Please help me
get my husband back home. We have 3 children and our oldest son even
served our country. I hired a lawyer and paid him but he ignores my
phones calls. My children and I feel in our hearts my husband is an
AMERICAN even though his passport may say otherwise. What makes an
American is not contained within a document, but depends upon an individual's
relationship and loyalty to this country.
No
name given
Stone Mountain, GA
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A COMMENT
I came
here alone 27 years ago -- no family or friends in the US. I
had $100 dollars and a dream of not being second to any man. I was
26
years old and I spoke no English. Now I am a successful professional,
well respected in the community, serving on many boards, and
volunteering with non-profits. I could take all the credit for my
achievements, but I know luck had a lot to do with it.
Patricia
California
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A COMMENT
Read
comments to this posting HERE
I was
born 21 years ago in Jalisco, Mexico but have lived in the U.S. for
19 years. My mother, father, and older sister are illegal too. Since
I was only two when I came here, I never knew that I was illegal.
I didn't find out until I was in middle school and I was so embarrassed.
It was no wonder we never went to visit our family in Mexico. We have
not returned in 19 years and I know it must be very difficult for
my family. I have never met my cousins or any of my uncles or aunts.
I don't even know what I looked like as a baby because my mother left
all the photos in Mexico. I have three younger sisters and two younger
brothers who are all natural born American citizens. Ever since I
was little I always dreamed of going to college and never thought
I'd see the day because of my status. My junior year of high school
I was offered paid tuition and books for concurrent enrollment at
a local community college because of my hard work in school and school
involvement. I was so excited at the thought of setting foot in college
classroom but my heart's hope quickly faded as soon as I remembered
my reality. However, as always, my prayers never went unanswered.
A law passed here in my home state and I was able to attend any college
or university in the state without being denied state scholarships.
It was amazing. My first two years of college were fully paid for,
tuition, fees, and books included! I didn't know how or when but I
knew from the moment I met them that I wanted to work among children
all my life! Children are beautiful! So I attended community college
and received an associate's degree. I then attempted to start working
towards a bachelor's and transferring to a bigger university. Not
only was I accepted but I was offered the largest scholarship from
that particular university! It was truly a blessing in my life. But
then the thoughts arise again. "Will someone find out? Can they
make my entire family leave? But most of my family is American."
It's been a tough journey not being able to work, drive a car, board
a plane, travel the nation or identify myself in this country for
that matter. It is something I definitely think about often. Although
the fear is constant, I approach my senior year in college with high
hopes as I embark the future. I wish there was something I could do
and am praying for an amazing opportunity. My hard work will not go
unnoticed. I only wish America would see a loving father and his wife
trying to do everything to provide for their beautiful seven children.
I wish America would see me for what I am. Not a criminal. Not a money
hungry slave. Not a person who doesn't belong...but a woman trying
to make a difference in the world of another's.
No
Name Given
Oklahoma City, OK
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A COMMENT
I am
a United States Citizen and I am going to get married to a non-citizen.
We have twin girls and she is a stay at home mom. I am trying to fix
her papers but we are afraid that she may get deported for a minimum
of 2 years. We are just a typical family trying to get by and our
government isn't making it any easier.
Luis
San Ysidro, CA
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A COMMENT
This
isn't my story, it's my cousin's. She is presently living with a man
who is a permanent resident. They have three children together and
have even bought a house. He is abusive ,controlling, manipulative
and a bully. He can file for citizenship and eventually file her paperwork.
He has refused to do this because he fears that she will become more
independent and eventually leave him. Secretly, I wish she would.
I can't talk to my cousin much these days because he has told me not
to call his house anymore. She can't drive because she is here illegally.
She is basically stuck at home. I know there is a part of the immigration
law that is for battered spouses and children. Can someone please
comment on this and tell me if she has to be married to him to be
eligible?
Ann
Rockland County, New York
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A COMMENT
Read
comments to this posting HERE
My name
is Candy and I am from Texas. I was born in Jalisco. My family (mother,
father, 2 sisters and myself) illegally immigrated to the United States
in 1988. Needless to say life hasn't been easy for almost 19 years.
I went to school, did very well and graduated from high school in
the top 15 percent of my class. I did one semester of college that
I was not able to complete. I didn't continue my college education
because money is hard to come by when you are illegal. I could not
drive legally, and could not obtain a job to pay for school. Luckily
I fell in love with a great man who happens to be an American citizen.
We married in 2004. In June 2007 I became a legal Resident of the
USA. Let me tell you that did not come easy. I consider myself to
be a very smart individual with a thirst for life. If I were legal
I would have been able to be in college the last four years. That’s
four years which I lost and will work hard to catch up. I still want
a lot out of life. Thank God I feel that life is now beginning.
Tragically
the only way to legalize for people in my situation is to marry a
United States citizen. I have a sister who fell in love with the wrong
man and now has two kids that she is the sole provider for. He's the
kind of man that was not willing to help her just hurt her. It is
extremely hard for me to watch her try to raise two kids and knowing
that every time she gets behind the wheel of a car she could get pulled
over and arrested. If she were legal she would be able to provide
so much more for her kids.
My other
sister who is about to turn 19, faces a difficult situation as well.
We cannot control who our heart falls in love with. She fell in love
with a Man who is from Honduras. He is here illegally as well. Therefore
they are left without options. Neither one of them can do anything
for the other as far as the illegal immigration issue goes.
My father
has since returned to Mexico. His father died and he returned knowing
he would not be able to come back.
My mother
works as a housekeeper. Prior to remarrying she would work 16 hours
a day if not more to provide for my siblings (I also have a younger
brother and sister who are US citizens). Luckily she was able to get
her drivers license many many years ago when the requirements weren't
so strict. Now she is married to a US citizen that is trying to help
her obtain her paperwork. It saddens me because my mother is 42 years
old but her body is tired. She will probably face old age with out
any money in order to retire.
Candy
Texas
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A COMMENT
I am
an American citizen married to an "illegal immigrant". We
have been to a number of immigration attorneys to see if she can change
her status. Unfortunately, in order to do so, she would have to go
back to Mexico and apply there. We have three kids together, so for
her to go back to Mexico and apply is not rational. My wife is a stay-at-home
mom, so I don't think she would qualify for this so-called guest worker
program. It is very likely that society will label her as an "illegal
immigrant" for quite some time. But to me she is my wife and
the mother of my kids, not a criminal.
Aaron
San Diego, CA
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A COMMENT
Read
comments to this posting HERE
I was
brought into the United States illegally in 1976. My siblings and
I were raised in the United States but unfortunately were deported
in 1985. At that time my father decided to bring us back to the United
States and somehow ended up staying until the present. There was no
way of fixing our situation after the deportation and we all graduated
from High School but with no hopes for future education. Luckily we
had work permits and were able to work. The only way I was able to
become legal was after I married my husband who is a United States
Citizen. In 2000 I finally became a Permanent Resident after paying
fines and waiting 20 plus years for this opportunity. I am now 33
years old and am finally attending College like I always dreamed.
If only there would've been an opportunity for me to become legal
younger I would now have a career. Nevertheless; I am pursuing my
dream of becoming a teacher but for two of my siblings it is still
a struggle because they have not had the opportunity to become legal
in this Country of "Opportunities".
Virginia
Terrazas Lopez
El Paso, Texas
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A COMMENT
I am
an American citizen and was born and raised in Texas. My story is
about my soon to be husband. He came into the U.S. illegally 8 years
ago and has done nothing but work hard for his family in Honduras,
not to mention our family. I have 4 kids that are not his and one
that is his, but to my kids that’s the daddy they know. He’s
the one who wakes them in the morning, the one who works for them,
pays the bills, and after working all day in the hot sun, comes home
to play the part of being daddy, not only for his son but to my other
4 as well. My husband has done nothing wrong in this country but take
care of us and all he wants is to continue to do just that and hopefully
some day become an American citizen and work without worrying about
getting deported and losing the only thing he has, his family. Without
him I don’t know where we would be. Because of him I was able
to continue my education. He helped me out with all of my kids while
I was at school sometimes and when I started working as a CNA. Without
him, I would probably be on cash assistance and food stamps letting
all you tax payers support me and all my kids and no I didn’t
plan on having so many kids so the state would support them. I was
married before but to my surprise my marriage did not work after 13
years. I just don’t understand why they just can’t let
the good guys stay
Julie
Texas
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A COMMENT
Read
comments to this posting HERE
My dad
is illegal and most of his family is but not all of it. I am a girl
who was raised with illegals. I never thought they were different
or there was something wrong with coming from another country and
wanting to live a better life. But I guess some do. They say we take
their jobs. No, we just do the jobs they don't want. Without us they
could not survive. My dad has been here for like 21 years because
of these people called guerillas.
Bianca
Portland, OP
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A COMMENT
I am
41 years old and have been in the U.S. for almost 23 years out of
legal status. I came here legally under a student visa and lost my
status after my visa expired. I have been married and divorced three
times to U.S. citizens and none of them have sponsored me. I have
two children, and this is affecting my kids, especially when I can't
give them the life they deserve because their mother is here illegally.
It looks like I will remain illegally in this country until my son
turns 21 to actually sponsor me in five years. This is extremely sad,
and a hardship for my minor children and me. I have no family except
my children. I am pretty much stuck in this country. It is my home,
and I will die here some day. I am a very educated person, and have
lots of potential if I was here legally.
Sarah
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I'm
a U.S. citizen. I fell in love with my husband, Adi, who is from Albania.
We got married in November of 2004 ... did the paperwork; the I-130
and all that. We hired a new lawyer, who misrepresented us. He didn't
get our petition approved in time for court, so my husband had to
take voluntary departure. He left last June. Finally this past December,
I received a call saying we finally got an interview in Tirana, Albania
in January. So, I flew from the U.S., thinking my husband was coming
home for sure!! It had already been 7 months!
I took
everything I had with me over there. We got to the interview. They
DENIED his visa for something that had never been brought up before
in his case. I was heartbroken. Since then, I've received notice that
the lawyer that screwed us over is going in front of the attorney
grievance commission. Before and since my husband left, I have contacted
every individual that works for this U.S. government, and nobody has
been willing to help us!! Except my congressman, Thaddeus McCotter
who did obtain a piece of info I wanted to know about.
Now,
we have filed the extreme hardship waiver and we are once again, waiting.
WAITING. WAITING. I'm a citizen. My husband, who paid taxes, owns
a business here, a home, has no criminal record, didn't enter illegally
and left on his OWN, has been unable to come back for a year!!! I
am beside myself with anger. And NOW they want to reform the immigration
situation. How does that help us whose spouses have already had to
leave? I am angered, and I want my husband home.
Melissa
Livonia, Michigan
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A COMMENT
Read
an update from the writer and comments to this posting HERE
I can
still remember the sound of the sprinkler pipes - shoo shoo shoo -
it was early morning and I arrived in Idaho from Zacatecas, MX in
the back of my uncle's pick up truck at the age of 5. It was 1972
and we had no running water in the red box car we called a home. I
remember getting on a yellow bus and seeing a bunch of freckled faces
with red hair that looked almost alien. I did not speak a word of
English but I was excited to go to school. We stayed in the box car
for long time until my father saved enough money for our own place.
My mom
had four more children all girls who are now incredible women. We
all graduated from high school, four of us from college. We have run
state and federal programs and provided assistance to many. Today,
that box car could fit inside any one of our homes.
Now,
I am an advocate in my community because I am not afraid to speak
of the worth of my people. I am an American, the product of the American
dream.
Sonia
Rodriguez
Blackfoot, Idaho
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A COMMENT
Read
comments to this posting HERE
I
am a Canadian citizen married to a man from Oklahoma. We have been
married since November 2006. I am currently employed and living here
in Canada for now as he just finished up basic training in the National
Guard. I want to move myself and my three children down to the United
States soon but am unsure as to the paperwork that I need to have
completed. I have custody of my children and I do not want to give
up my Canadian citizenship when I move there. I want myself and my
children to have permanent residency. Do I need the permission of
the father of my children to take them? What paperwork do I need to
have done to get it and does it take a long time to get? And am I
the one that is to complete it or is that something my husband should
be doing. I love my husband and am so tired of being so far apart.
If anyone has answers for me they would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,
Jocelyn
Jocelyn
Ontario, Canada
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I
was born in Jamaica, West Indies. My aunt sent for me to enter the
United States in 1998 when she found out I was pregnant. I had my
daughter in July of 1998. In 1999 my aunt died while in the process
of filing for my papers and I went to live with her son's daycare
provider. Since I have been living with her, she has not shown me
how to go about getting my citizenship. My daughter is now 8 years
old and I am 23 years old. I have not even finished school. I want
to become a doctor but without the right paper work, I can't really
do anything. I came to the U.S legally on a visa and a passport and
I don't even know how the ones who came here illegally are living.
I want to do things the right way. My boyfriend wants to marry me
so I can get my stuff together but he is scared because he thinks
it is illegal and he might go to jail. I have never worked and I want
to be able to give my daughter the finer things in life. I want to
know why the Bush organization is not doing anything about the people
who have been here for so long legally and can't get any kind of citizenship.
Lara
No location given
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A COMMENT
Read
comments to this posting HERE
I
know that some people will probably disagree with my point of view
and say that what I'm about to tell you is all my fault, but I am
not interested in criticism. I am honestly speaking my mind and letting
some negative emotions out. I have always been a law-abiding individual.
I came here almost 10 years ago, and have been a good permanent resident,
later citizen of the USA. I came from Eastern Europe. I thought that
America would present a lot of opportunities for me, especially if
I obtained a college degree. Well, I too feel deceived. I did obtain
a bachelor's degree in management and marketing two and a half years
ago, but that hasn't helped me a whole lot. I think that the opportunities
with this degree are limited for me. I am not considering more education
because it is no guarantee for anything. I have only been able to
get jobs such as deli clerk, production worker, and eventually stocking
store merchandise working very few hours. Yes, these don't pay very
much and I shouldn't be doing them. I am not sure what employers think
when I go to interviews for "entry-level" jobs in my field.
Maybe, just maybe, my foreign name and my slight accent which cannot
be changed could be the problem. Or it could be my lack of experience
even though employers like to use the term "entry-level."
I couldn't say because I don't know for sure. I try to be prepared
for every interview as thoroughly as possible (I smile and try to
be very persuasive and confident), I try to network with people, I
try to apply to as many jobs as possible, and I try to look for work
in other states. But all of this seems useless. I am sorry to say
this, America, but I don't think that you have given me the opportunity
that I deserve. My current plan is to return somewhere to Europe as
soon as September or October of this year with my family. I think
I may have some better prospects there. I don't think that I can afford
to stay here much longer. Yes, I have had a frustrating experience.
On the other hand, to those immigrants who succeeded in America, I
wish you continuous success and happiness, but I don't think that
this country is "for me" anymore. Thank you for letting
me share my thoughts.
BM
Ohio
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
My
husband was told to leave the U.S. right before I got pregnant. He
left and I went through my pregnancy alone and now have a beautiful
6 month old girl that has never met her father. The INS keeps giving
us time frames that are never correct. We have been married for 5
years and now he is just waiting for his interview (meanwhile was
working illegally and got caught...everything is a mess and I do not
know how much more I can take)...anyway, any advice or support would
be great. It is no wonder why there are so many illegals.
No
name or location given
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I
am from Kashmir Pakistan but nowadays I am studying in the UK. My
wife and I love each other but our families were against our marriage.
My wife is a U.S. citizen and living in USA when we met here in the
UK. We married and everybody was against our marriage so it was difficult
for us to go back home. After one year, God gave us a baby born in
the USA. I tried to go there but U.S. immigration in the UK did not
give me a visa. My wife was alone at the time of birth of our child.
My case is still in immigration process. Sometimes my wife visits
me and we spend a few months together. God help us, we are still waiting
for immigration to enable us to live together.
Khan
UK
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
We
are having a huge dilemma and don’t know where to turn. My wife
Alejandra applied for U.S. residency around Oct 2004. We have already
been through all the INS red tape and even got as far as our interview
as a married couple on March 23, 2006. At that point, we were told
we should be receiving correspondence from the INS within days for
her to come down and have her passport stamped as a resident.
Thirty
days came and went with nothing, so we contacted the INS and were
told they had no answer yet. We were very perplexed since after the
interview we were told we would get the residency card in the mail.
We contacted our immigration attorney and after he inquired, we were
told she had been selected for a random background check and there
was no time frame on how long that would take.
My wife,
who is an only child, would like to be with her mother who has no
one to help her in Colombia since she is a widow. Of course, my wife
may not leave the country because her case is still pending with the
INS. Her attorney strongly advised against filing an I-131 for advance
parole because he said that it may have an adverse reaction on her
return. His understanding is that the file is under "investigation"
and there is no idea when the file will be complete. THIS IS LUDICROUS.
It has been well over 6 months since our interview was completed and
two years since the petition was filed. How long does it take the
USCIS to review and close a file?
Is there
ANYONE you know we can appeal to for help to get this case moved forward?
My wife Alejandra would like nothing more than to be with her mother
in her time of need. Yet some breakdown in the system has put her
case on indefinite limbo.
Most
of my e-mails fall on deaf ears. As an American citizen, I am embarrassed
by the lack of any feelings that the bureaucrats have. However, I
will keep trying to help my wife see her mother before she dies.
Samuel
Newman
Fort Lauderdale, FL
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I
am a U.S. citizen and my husband is from Mexico .We have been married
for 6 years and his lawyer is a screw up. We have asked her for his
paperwork and never received it. She always tells us she’ll
send it and never does. We go to deportation court on Oct. 2, 2006
and she's had his case for years. I would like to slap the people
who say we broke the law. If you have never been though it you have
know idea what a mess it is.
No
name given
Bison, Kansas
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A COMMENT
I
am very disappointed that the country I was born and educated in now
takes away my happiness. My husband was asked to leave the country
after filing for his residency in 2004. He was deported in 2005 without
any explanation. I call USCIS every month and get different answers.
Does being a hardworking, responsible man with a family and no criminal
background mean anything anymore? This has caused us financial hardship
and medical issues. How long does the US want families to be separated?
I thought family unity was the important thing here...or not?
Lisa
Paso Robles, CA
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
I
am US-born citizen who filed a Petition I-130 back in 2003 for my
husband, a citizen of Mexico living in the US since 1992. Approved
in 2005, my husband was summoned right after his approval for removal
from the US. We were suckered for $3500 by an ineffective counsel.
We found another counsel, who was granted permission to reopen to
case. We have an upcoming case to prove the existence of years in
the US for my husband, medical issues with my children and myself,
and education barriers if we uproot to Mexico. We are trying to do
all things right. Our petition has now been lost. We have filed all
the correct paperwork. Waiting for approvals of Work Permissions,
still nothing. I have called USCIS, but get no straight answers. I
have paid over 7500.00 since January in lawyers fees and have been
told to get us out of a removal defense it will cost another $4000
more. We are broke now. We are poor with three small children and
have no working forms for my husband. What would you do?
No
name given
Millsboro, DE
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A COMMENT
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comments to this posting HERE
My
immigration story is not mine. It is the story of my cousin. I'll
call her Eva. She sold all of her belongings and arrived in Atlanta
during Christmas of 2005. She was full of the hopes of living the
American Dream. For the first three months, she struggled terribly.
She spoke no English and had no transportation. I taught her how to
ride the bus so she could get around. I even tried to encourage her
to go to school and learn how to speak English. Interview, after interview
went by and employers turned her down. She did what many Spanish-speaking
people do, went to work for other Hispanics. Eva got a job working
at a Dominican hair salon. Instead of encouraging her to learn English
and take advantage of the fact that she is a legal resident of the
United States, she took the easy road out. In the salon, no one speaks
English. Until a month ago, she slaved 10 hours a day, 6 days a week
for a measly $275. I guess she just woke up one morning and got sick
of it! She packed up her things and her daughter who was doing great
in school reading and writing English and moved to New York. She sent
her daughter back to the Dominican Republic. Eva is now working in
another Dominican hair salon in the Bronx, and regrets ever leaving
home. She left behind a decent career working at a radio station and
a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.
The
reason I wrote this story is to let other Immigrants know that living
the "American Dream" is not as easy as some people make
it out to be. I work for a big company here in Atlanta in bilingual
customer service and it hurts me to hear Latin Americans who have
been here 20 years calling in to say they can't understand their phone
bills because they're in English. Or mothers who have they're kids
call in because they can't understand English. We have to stop being
lazy as an entire community. If we want to be respected and welcomed
in America we have to adapt to American ways and not expect everything
to be laid on a gold platter and be spoon fed the "American Dream."
I don't
blame Americans who feel like immigration is a bad thing. In some
ways it is. I love my heritage and I love my roots. I enjoy being
Hispanic and love being able to return to the Dominican Republic.
I believe that immigration is good for those who come to America and
make an effort to become American. It is possible to keep the all
of our customs and traditions in the home and integrate it into the
"American Dream" that all of our ancestors came searching
for.
I.
Torres
Atlanta, GA
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I
arrived April 1967 at Miami, Tamiami Airfield on one of the U.S. sponsored
Freedom Flights. A confused boy of eight with my parents, two brothers,
three great aunts, and maternal grandmother on a long awaited flight.
The
little boy became a little man his last three years in Cuba. The loss
of a normal childhood by unforeseen forces would haunt him until his
dreams began to come together like pieces of a puzzle making sense
to it all in his adult life.
To this
day I can close my eyes and still taste the first piece of gum that
the flight attendant gave me. We spent two weeks in Miami before joining
the rest of my family, aunts, uncles, and cousins in Los Angeles.
A great lesson in the importance of hard work and education is one
of many we learned by seeing our family struggle and achieve the American
Dream.
Thirty-seven
years have passed; I look back and see a future that a little boy
would never have dreamed of. My brothers and I graduated with degrees
and hold good positions. My family as a whole achieved the American
Dream. I am thankful to the United States for extending their arms
and embracing us with freedom, opportunities, and compassion.
Francisco
I. Garcia Ros
American Citizen, Cuban Soul
Los Angeles, CA
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Arrived
in summer 1990, one day after finishing my final test of Bachelor
in Accounting. I knew then I had to go somewhere for a better job
and opportunities. I considered myself a smart guy and I knew my way
around the big city and what I needed to do in order to blend in.
I went to college to learn the language and improve the accounting
skills that differed from those in Mexico. I had been working steadily,
yet always in the hiding, always fearful someone will find out my
real story, always afraid someone might run a background check on
me and find out I have been overstaying illegally for so many years.
I even lost my ability to drive as I could not longer renew the license
due to new regulations. I even had a romantic domestic partnership
that lasted 12 glorious years. I miss that relationship, but I know
the reality of being illegal played a small role in the break up.
It is hard to ask someone to carry the cross with you for a long time.
We still talk on the phone, always wishing well and hoping for a solution
in the government. Today I’m jobless, more concerned about the
future, praying for a compromise in congress, and hopeful a new company
will hire me soon based on my knowledge. But yet if I have to leave,
I will always say: it was worth it, every second in this beautiful
land of dreams.
J-E
Los Angeles, CA
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SUMMER
2005 - After seven years of making it work with my boyfriend from
Cyprus (whom I met while he was studying in my hometown of New York
City), finally it seems that we have exhausted all of our possible
options which have enabled us to stay together so far. We have played
by the rules for so long. Rules that tell us because we are a same-sex
bi-national couple we cannot support one another to stay legally in
either country - like any heterosexual couple have the right to do.
We have tried going back and forth from continent to continent, leaving
every three months in order to satisfy the 90 day allowance we are
permitted to stay on foreign soil. We have tried applying for all
types of jobs in hope that we would gain work visas. We have taken
loans to go to university in each other’s homeland. If you name
it, we have probably done it.
MAY
2006 - So, after seven years, we finally called it quits and are now
coming up on our first anniversary of a full year apart; torn by hypocrisy,
prejudice and ignorance. Thanks Uncle Sam!
Vince
D.
New York City
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I
am told that when my grandfather was only 5 or 6 years old, his family
returned to Sweden for an entire summer. His parents wanted to reconnect
with the family they had left behind when they immigrated to the United
States. As the story goes, my grandfather talked in Swedish so much
that summer, that when he began school in September, he couldn’t
remember any English, and the teachers had to place him in special
classes.
I just
heard that story for the first time a few months ago, and I wish I
knew more like it. There are so many things I don’t know about
my own immigration story. Why did my ancestors come? What kind of
work did they do when they first arrived? How were they treated?
Last
September, I began working with hurricane evacuees through my local
congregation. Most of the people we have been assisting are recent
immigrants from Central America. As we continue to walk alongside
these families, I am more and more aware of how difficult it is to
be perceived as an immigrant in this country. I’ve also realized
that I want to know more about the immigration experiences of my ancestors.
In the
coming months, I plan to organize a small group from my church to
explore our personal immigration stories. We will connect our stories
with those of the Bible, present-day immigrants, indigenous people,
and Africans who were brought here against their will. I hope we can
begin to cure the historical amnesia that keeps us ignorant and makes
us bitter. In the process, I hope we can find our common heritage
as children of God.
Tim
Houston, TX
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I
was 5 years old and I didn't even know that my parents were leaving
Cuba to go to the USA. And all of sudden I was driving to Havana and
staying there for a few days to wait for the time that we would be
leaving and boarding a plane to the USA. My father's brother was our
"sponsor" and he met up with us in Key West as we landed.
There were 4 adults and 3 children and we drove from Key West to New
Jersey. It had to take at least 2 days but I was so young I couldn't
remember. We drove all the way from Key West into Newark, NJ to the
apartment building that my aunt and uncle lived in and we saw snow
for the first time in our lives because it was April 28, 1958. And
for some reason....there was snow.
It was
the most amazing thing I had ever seen and it made me think about
how this country would be so strange for me but all I wanted was to
be an American!!!
Digna
California
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1962.
Ten years old and a spoiled middle class Cuban princess, the only
female of seven cousins. Sent to a Hialeah, Floridal home of a family
who had just arrived and had their own set of problems.
My brother
had already been thru Matacunbe Camp and sent to an orphanage in Saginaw,
Michigan. I was extremely unhappy in Hialeah and was almost sent back
to Cuba if not for the wisdom of my 12-year-old brother who talked
the nuns into bringing me up to the Michigan orphanage. Spent three
good years at St. Vincent's Home for Children. The years flew by and
I was reunited with my parents Christmas Eve 1964, Los Angeles International
Airport (you can guess what that reunion has done for Christmas for
the next 40 years).
North
Hollywood, California in the 60s and 70s, a good life, getting all
50 family members out of Cuba, and creating a tight family unit. Married
a nice Cuban man and moved to Miami with my own two Cuban American
princesses in 1979. They where raised more Cuban than the palms that
line Westchester neighborhoods. And the years flew, the Cuban American
princesses now hold college degrees, and do very well here in exile.
I am now a grandmother to a child who wears T-shirts that say “Cubanito”
and “Made in the USA with Cuban Parts.”
My
grandparents died waiting for a free Cuba, so did my dad. My mom continues
to wait, and I have resigned myself to the local catholic cemetery.
No, I have not gone back to Cuba, I believe that the island is not
large enough to hold Fidel Castro and me.
Mercy Cañete-Velar
Miami, FL
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Growing
up I never understood what being from El Salvador was about. More
than anything, it was to have been born with a Latin soul. It carries
much meaning that it took me years to cope with and to understand,
and more than anything learn to love with a passion. Being first generation
American built up walls for me I never knew I had the courage to break
down. It amazes me how the dreams and aspirations of a person can
take them to the place their heart desires as it did for my mother.
For many immigrants those dreams and hopes brought them to America,
to this world, to this land of endless possibilities, to many a land
of perfection. Full of pain and struggles, I look at my mother today
and see her for the amazing woman she was and continues to be. It
is a constant struggle with yourself and this world to find who you
are. For me finding who I was and where my place in this world is,
was deep-rooted in where I came from. I am a part of two worlds, two
cultures, two identities. I am Hispanic, I am American -- I am Latin-American.
And as I once was embarrassed, I now carry a load of dignity and honor.
The sky is bluer than it ever was before. Most of all a profound gratification
of my family and everything we stand for. My mother and father’s
faith in their dreams and in God molded me into the woman I am today.
I stand here at 28 years of existence with a Bachelors degree and
a Masters degree, experiencing and seeing the amazing things this
world has to offer. Fulfilling all of my dreams in hopes that I continue
the process of passing my Latin roots to my children someday, and
that it may be carried on to future generations. The struggles my
mother encountered entering the unknown inspired me, that dreams can
drive you and that they are possible. My debt of gratitude to my mother
and father is endless, and my success in this country, in this world,
will be a small reminder of their efforts. It was a long bumpy road,
an incredible journey to get where they are today, but they are here
to stay.
And
with that, I continue to pursue my dreams and hope that children of
immigrant parents overcome the struggles they encounter and embrace
their roots as I have. As for that ultimate question, “Where
are you from?” With pride “Yo soy Latina-Americana.”
Jennifer
Vasquez
Miami, FL / D.C.
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The
American dream tells us that in this country nothing is impossible
if you work hard, demonstrate resilience, act with integrity and persevere.
It is sad to say, but I feel deceived. I came to the U.S. as a legal
immigrant. I knew that I needed to contribute to this country in my
full capacity. I learned the language, the cultural norms, I went
to a grad school and I became a PhD. I, like many legal and undocumented
immigrants, believed in America as the land of opportunities. Unfortunately
for me, those opportunities became more evasive as I tried higher
levels of work, education, and recognition. In my case, more education
translated into less opportunity. Doors were open when I was a labor
worker; doors were wide open when I was a cook, a waiter, a floor
cleaner person, a house painter or a gardener. Nonetheless, I have
not been perceived as a good candidate for those white-collar (consulting)
positions. I was hopeful that the pay off was going to come after
finishing my program, but instead, I have succumbed to the misery
of unemployment for more than a year and half. I followed the instructions
to reach the American dream, I came here legally, I learned the language,
social and cultural norms, I got a degree, paid all my taxes; I’ve
been a good permanent resident for almost 10 years. I’ve never
been arrested or charged with a misdemeanor. I don’t know where
the equation became wrong.
I realized
that gatekeepers did not trust my skills, knowledge, integrity, perseverance,
family values, and hard work. Gatekeepers have not opened the doors
I was expecting for all these years, gatekeepers simply did not provide
the opportunity. Tell me what I did wrong.
Leo Gonzalez
Berkeley, California
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This
is not my story but the story of my grandfather's sisters. Originally
from Poland, they were sent to a ghetto in Russia during WWII. After
that, they went to Canada, where they waited for the papers they needed
to legally enter the country. Finally, they settled in New York more
than 50 years ago, one sister with her son and daughter in law, the
other one single, but all living together under the same roof until
they passed away.
Her
son, (my uncle) and his wife, are in their 70s now and they still
have a lovely "Polish" accent but they raised a family of
two 100% Americans that also have grown the family from 4 to 9.
I admire
my uncle and aunt not only for their long travel "home"
but also because being hard working people they never complain, looking
always at the glass as half full.
Cecilia
Plantation, FL
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Two
brothers tell their stories...
I came
to the US in 1960 via Pan Am Airways, tourist visa, first class. My
father was a well-know journalist in Havana that became disillusioned,
and vocal about it, when Fidel declared himself a Marxist. He had
to leave with only the clothes on his back.
My mother, brother, sister and I followed my father 6 months later
after a horrible ordeal. The "guajiros" that Fidel
had appointed as bureaucrats refused to make the distinction between
my father's status as a persona non-grata and myself, a 10 year old
boy with the same name. So I was denied a visa. The issue was resolved
when my great-uncle Oscar who had lived 30 years in New York City
intervened. When we questioned him later, Oscar told us he fixed it
the capitalist way: He bribed the "campesino" with
a $100 bill!
My father told Mom to pack light, and leave all the valuables and
photos behind; he was willing to bet it all that "Patilla"
(the bearded one) wouldn't last a year. That was 46 years ago!
T.
Yaniz
Key West, FL
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I was
6 years old when we left Cuba. When you're that young you don't exactly
know what's going on, just that something's wrong. You pick on up
the vibes from the adults. The women crying, the men whispering. My
brother and I peeking at the TV and watching men being shot. My father
was an established journalist who was flown out in the middle of the
night by the U.S. State Department to take part in the big failure
of the Bay of Pigs.
Six
months after my father left we were granted visas, only to be detained
by a greedy Cuban immigration official who noticed my brother’s
name matched that of a wanted anti-revolutionist (my father). My brother
was 10 years old at the time. I remember the anxiety of thinking about
having to leave without my brother. Then my great uncle showed up
and paid that varmint off. I'm now a U.S. citizen, 52 years young
and living In Costa Rica.
Carlos
de Jesus Yaniz Palmes
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