Like millions of mixed-status families, I witnessed how my siblings faced the constant fear of family separation, even though they were born here and became U.S. citizens.
As the child of immigrants and a first-generation American, I have lived the reality many of our lawmakers ignore. I grew up in a community that thrived through hard work, mutual aid, and resilience. My parents taught me love, compassion, and the value of helping others — lessons far removed from the greed and power games I see in Washington today.
My whole life, I’ve been going back and forth between cultures.
There was one constant that grounded me. Storytelling. I learned that regular working people – nurses, teachers, stay-at-home parents – have stories to tell, and if we actually listen to them, they can create solutions to some of our toughest problems.
The budget reconciliation bill Congress passed and that was signed into law in July puts North Carolinians like me at risk, including thousands of veterans. The bill includes deep cuts to Medicaid, a program that has now become essential as I search for affordable healthcare and support.