A Better life
Driven by economic or political hardship, many people are willing to risk physical danger and an uncertain future to come to this country. When they enter the country illegally they know that their choice has cost them the ability to see family members, friends and their home culture for a long time - possibly forever. They know they risk imprisonment and will not have the security of the law on their side. Yet weighed against all of that the benefits of being able to earn more money and secure a better future for their children make the hardships worth the risk.
There are many vibrant communities that keep cultural heritage alive for immigrants coming here. Extended families gather for celebrations and traditions. Music, sports, foods, holidays, and religious practices are kept alive within their new home through their network. Over time, family members left behind are able to fund education and even large purchases such as appliances or real estate from the money sent to them. The next generation born within the US borders is able to reap the benefits of full citizenship. Education, health care, and business opportunities are the biggest reasons to raise a new generation here. Ibelia, like many other undocumented immigrants, loves her home country and wishes she could see her mother and family again. She wishes she could have come here legally, but unable to get a visa and with limited funds that just wasn’t possible. She took the risk and feels it was worth it.
There are many vibrant communities that keep cultural heritage alive for immigrants coming here. Extended families gather for celebrations and traditions. Music, sports, foods, holidays, and religious practices are kept alive within their new home through their network. Over time, family members left behind are able to fund education and even large purchases such as appliances or real estate from the money sent to them. The next generation born within the US borders is able to reap the benefits of full citizenship. Education, health care, and business opportunities are the biggest reasons to raise a new generation here. Ibelia, like many other undocumented immigrants, loves her home country and wishes she could see her mother and family again. She wishes she could have come here legally, but unable to get a visa and with limited funds that just wasn’t possible. She took the risk and feels it was worth it.