Real People. Real Lives. Women Immigrants of New York: Linda, 30, from Colombia
Photo by Sasha Nialla
Linda’s photograph and story were curated as part of the photo and storytelling exhibit, “Real People. Real Lives. Women Immigrants of New York.”
“You do not realize how important a nine-digit number can be, until it stands in your way. Until it is a defining piece in your story of success. My parents brought me to the United States when I was only two years old, in search of a better future.
“After years of studying, acing exams, and graduating in the top five percent of my high school class, at the age of 18 I was faced with the harsh reality that I was not eligible for financial aid, scholarships, student loans, or even a job that could at least help pay for county college, all because of my undocumented status.
“Working under the table as a cashier, waitress, and even cleaning homes with my mom, I was able to earn enough money to pay for county college out of pocket. Determined to get an education, I refused to let my legal status stand in the way of my success. After almost 20 years of hard work and patience, three months shy of my 21st birthday I was finally able to say ‘I am LEGAL, you CANNOT kick me out, you CANNOT deny me an education, you CANNOT stop me from accomplishing my dream and you CANNOT stop me from becoming a powerful voice for my Latino community!'”
“As a family united we survived, while waiting our turn in the long line of immigration processing. Steadfast, resilient, and passionately motivated to obtain an education, today at the age of 30 I stand proud as a second year Doctoral student, Professor of Psychology and Family Studies, and social entrepreneur, embodying the phrase ‘SI SE PUEDE!'”
“Real People. Real Lives. Women Immigrants of New York” was a one-time event hosted by New Women New Yorkers at the Centre for Social Innovation on March 24, in honor of Women’s History Month. Read a recap of the event here.
