This episode is by Iris Lopez with some help from Jarrett Ramones, the Senior Communication Coordinator for Youth Leadership Institute.
Opening Narration by Senior Calafia Fellow Adamari Cota
Episode art by Senior Calafia Fellow Nancy Aguilar-Aquino.
Social media by Fátima Ramirez, The Senior Social Media Coordinator for Youth Leadership Institute.

What does the American Dream mean to you? Growing up, the concept of nationality felt abstract. My mother arrived in the states in 2001. As a child, I didn't understand the idea of citizenship. Only to realize that was a position my mom, aunts, and neighbors in my community have tirelessly tried to pursue. Now, two decades later, it's disheartening to see that many of them are still at square one. However, to fully understand the immigration struggle, the episode begins with personal stories. In a revealing conversation, Elida Gomez, my best friend’s mother, opened up about her journey leaving her country and the challenges of adapting to life in the States. I also spoke with my aunt about the impact of my uncle’s deportation on her and her two young daughters. The heartbreaks come in all shapes and forms, from fighting to get your spot in America to grieving the separation of your loved one. This episode is an invitation to walk in their shoes and confront the reality of whom the American dream excludes.

For more information about Youth Leadership Institute.

Calafia is yli’s statewide youth policy journal that amplifies the narratives of young people on topics and issue areas important to them and their communities.

Calafia’s past issues have focused on youth criminal justice reform, educational equity, and addressing stigmas within communities of color. Check out the last fellowship's issue titled, Systems below and contact Jarrett Ramones at jramones@yli.org for a print copy.

Be on the look out for our next print issue False Promises: The Chasm Between Home and Hope coming soon.

Calafia Fellows are selected every year from each yli office to create and edit the issue’s theme and the stories presented. They are also mentored by experienced reporters, travel to statewide and national media conferences, and learn the steps to producing a printed publication.

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