Immigration and Hispanic Youth

Much has been said about immigration in the United States and about how we are a nation of immigrants. In recent years, immigration has become one of the most heated political issues in this country. There are discussions about immigration reform, we hear stories about massive deportations and, many times, someone we know and care about is impacted directly by the issue.

Immigration is nothing new. In the late 1800s and early 1900s there were large waves of immigrants coming from Europe. Nowadays, most immigrants in the United States are of Hispanic descent. The reality was very different decades ago, but the struggles and the reasons for leaving home were the same: the search for a better life for ourselves and family. Throughout the history of Hispanic immigration, young people have always been in the center of it all. They were part of the early waves of immigration from Latin America, and they are part of the immigration struggle now. Just a few weeks ago, I participated in an immigration rally in Chicago.

The rally was in response to the proposed new immigration law in Arizona, SB1070, and served as an opportunity to show the need for comprehensive immigration reform. For me, it was a worthy and inspiring experience. The highlight of my day was seeing so many young people. Never in so many years of working closely with immigration issues have I seen so many young people making a statement and taking a stand for what they believe.

It gave me a great sense of hope to see so much talent and energy displayed throughout the march. The part of the rally that almost brought me to tears was listening to the personal stories. They were sad, yet powerful and uplifting. I remember this statement clearly, “My name is Cecilia, and I am undocumented.” Cecilia was undocumented, like too many other young people present. She talked about her parents struggle to raise her and her siblings, as well as her own struggle to find herself and come to grips with her own identity and reality. But she also talked about her blessings and achievements; about being the best in her class and the first to graduate from college. It was an ironic reality.

Like Cecilia, there are millions of young people struggling with immigration issues. And in the same way, there are millions of allies, people like you and I, who can make a big difference. We can join the effort for fairness and justice. We can change and help others change, for the better. Change starts with one person at a time.

What are your thoughts? How is immigration impacting your life and that of your family or friends? What role does your faith play in your approach to life in this immigration society?