In the heart of Milwaukee, a young woman navigates the complexities of life in America with a unique perspective. L, a PhD student with a love for iced macchiatos and Bad Bunny, is undocumented. Her story sheds light on the challenges faced by many immigrants lacking a clear pathway to citizenship.
Understanding the Invisible: Citizenship and Identity
For L, citizenship is an elusive concept, often assumed by others but never fully realized for her. “I think citizenship has just always been something that’s so interesting because it’s like — people can’t see it,” she explains. Despite her academic achievements, the shadow of her undocumented status looms large.
Chapter One: An Unseen Journey to the U.S.
L’s family story began in Monterrey, Mexico, where her father managed a graphic design company and her mother studied to become a hairdresser. With escalating violence from drug cartels, the family sought refuge in the U.S. on tourist visas in the early 2000s, eventually settling in Milwaukee. Although L grew up in the U.S., her identity remained split between her Mexican roots and American life.
Chapter Two: DACA’s Mixed Blessings
L seemed an ideal candidate for DACA, the Obama-era program providing temporary relief for young undocumented immigrants. However, due to a combination of poor legal advice and changing political climates, she missed the opportunity to apply. “I had a bad lawyer, and she told me not to apply [for DACA],” L recounts. Later, a Texas judge’s ruling blocked new applications, leaving L and many others in limbo.
Chapter Three: Limited Pathways
Without DACA, L faces limited options. Her younger brother, a U.S. citizen, could potentially petition for her residency, but the process is lengthy and costly. Alternatively, marriage could offer a path, but it’s not a feasible option for L. “I think it’s hard because part of me is like, ‘I don’t need a man!’” she says, highlighting both personal and financial barriers.
Chapter Four: Overcoming Educational Barriers
Despite these obstacles, L has pursued higher education with determination. As an undocumented student, she faced financial and emotional hurdles, yet found solace in scholarships and community support. “No one can take my education away,” L asserts, underscoring the importance of academic achievements in her life.
Chapter Five: Pioneering Change
L’s journey through academia has not only been about personal success but also about creating opportunities for others. By advocating for and securing a fellowship, she has paved the way for undocumented students to access higher education. “I feel like it was meant to be that I didn’t get DACA,” L reflects, finding purpose in her advocacy work.
Chapter Six: The Road Ahead
As legal and political landscapes shift, L remains hopeful for change. She dreams of establishing a Dreamers’ Center to support undocumented students in Wisconsin. While the future remains uncertain, L is undeterred. “This is motivating me,” she declares, as she continues her PhD studies, amplifying the voices of undocumented individuals through her research.
