Real People. Real Lives. Women Immigrants of New York: Nicole, 22, from Russia

Photo by Sasha Nialla

Nicole’s photograph and story were curated as part of the photo and storytelling exhibit, “Real People. Real Lives. Women Immigrants of New York.”

“I’ve lived here in New York most of my life. It all started with my mother, father, and little me. My father went back to Russia when I was a child, so then it was my mother and I. Then my mother died when I was seventeen. I was left here by myself to finish school and to make a career for myself.

“There is a lot of irony in the sacrifice my parents made in order to obtain the American Dream since they are no longer here. Perhaps their American Dream was for me to succeed and have a better life than they did as children. I recognize that while the American Dream for some may have lost its luster, it still remains vibrant within me. It is because in America, especially as a woman, we have certain choices, opportunities, and freedom that I wouldn’t have had if I were living in Russia or other parts of the world today.”

“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.