Immigration bill offers eight year pathway to citizenship
CENTRAL COAST, Calif. (KION) An immigration bill was introduced by House Democrats Thursday which would offer an eight year pathway to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants in the United States.
Rubi Uribe, a small business owner in Salinas and is also a full time student at California State University. She immigrated to the United States at the age of 14, two years after her mom. It was very difficult for her when she first arrived, she said.
“I come to a country where I don't know the language," said Uribe. "I didn't know any English. When one arrives if it is very difficult. "
Uribe graduated from a high school in Salinas. She was able to receive an education that may not have been possible back in her country, she said. But after graduating, working at an insurance company, and at times in the fields, she began to be aware of her limited opportunities.
“You are always aware that you have fewer opportunities," said Uribe. "Although you don't want to have that reality, you always want to think positive. But if it feels difficult. It feels like double work. And many people look down on us. "
Another challenge for Uribe is not being able to see her family in Mexico. Despite her mom being here, she has not been able to see her dad and siblings for over a decade.
"Right now we have the technology that allows us at least feel that bit of happiness but it is not complete," said Uribe. "You suddenly do feel empty at times. One needs to feel that affection sometimes."
Emily Christianson, staff attorney at the Immigrant Legal Services of the Central Coast said this bill has a huge impact in the Central Coast community.
“They will be able to have real roots in the community, establish their families here," said Christianson. "It's more than just legal stuff, it's more than just that. The emotional aspect where they’re finally recognized and able to have a path forward when they've been putting so much workers into their communities and into our state.”
During the Trump administration, Uribe remained in constant fear of being deported. She was scared to not be able to fulfill her hopes and dreams in this country. But she is glad to see a new administration that is recognizing her.
"It would benefit me a lot in education," said Uribe. "To be able to exercise my title and also have the possibility of traveling. To be able to vote in the future. Contribute, it's what one wants.. to contribute in a positive way."
The bill includes some of the immigration priorities President Joe Biden presented on his first day of office. It offers more funding for assylum application process, more visas, and new technology at the border.
