Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — This Fourth of July, America celebrates 250 years of independence. But for millions of immigrants, the American story didn’t begin in 1776, it began the day they arrived. Today, more than 47 million people living in the U.S. were born in another country. Behind that number are stories of risk, reinvention, and the hope of something better. What does America mean to you?
“America means to me, the opportunity that I couldn’t get in my country,” said Marcelo Santo.
“The future, the American dream for my kids,” said Rodrigo Alvarez.
“When I got here, I found a beautiful country, beautiful people,” said Manuel Tabata.
Three men. Three countries. Three very different journeys to America. Manuel left his family in Venezuela.
“The first two years was the worst part,” said Tabata.
For Marcelo, it meant escaping Argentina’s economic collapse.
“One people in three people have pain in your stomach because they don’t have anything to put on the table for the food,” explained Santo.
Rodrigo left Chile with his wife and daughter, selling everything to build a future. And while immigration remains one of America’s most divisive issues, a recent Gallup poll found a record-high 79 percent of Americans now say immigration is a good thing for the country. But starting over isn’t easy.
What Americans have grown up with, they cherish.
“The law is respect for all peoples,” said Alvarez.
“You have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of association,” explained Santo.
And they’re honest about what still needs work …
“The access to the healthcare,” explained Santo.
And for all three men, the American dream turned out to be more than opportunity. It became home.
“I love pancakes,” said Tabata.
“I eat turkey every Thanksgiving,” said Santo.
“I love the Green Bay Packers,” said Alvarez.
At 250, America is still arguing over who belongs, who gets in, and what the dream really means. But for Rodrigo, Marcelo and Manuel, the answer is simple.
“The American dream is still alive,” said Santo.
“America is the land of opportunities,” explained Tabata.
“It’s the best decision in my life,” said Alvarez.
Immigration is also a story of numbers. Pew research estimates about 14 million unauthorized immigrants live in the U.S. today. For those coming legally, the road to citizenship can be long, most immigrants must first become lawful permanent residents, then generally wait at least five years before applying for U.S. citizenship or three years if they’re married to a U.S. citizen. And even then, the application process itself can take more than a year.
Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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