This country was built by immigrants

We asked older Americans why this moment in our nation's 250-year history feels different. Elvira, 63, is one of those elders. She has lived in the United States for over 40 years and this what she had to say.

I am 63 years old. I grew up in Mexico City and came to the United States in 1986. Because my mother was a U.S. citizen, she petitioned for me, and I received my green card in just eight months. Today, someone in that same situation can wait more than 20 years. That difference alone tells me something fundamental has changed.

When I arrived, I was able to take English classes at no cost. For five years, I studied and worked hard to build a future here. I came with hope—not just to work, but to participate in this country’s democracy and contribute to society. I became a U.S. citizen in 1992, and I remember feeling proud, safe, and fully part of this nation.

I built a life here. I served as a Director of Religious Education in the Catholic Church. I bought a home in Huntington Beach. I was able to send my daughter to a Catholic school, where she received a strong education. These opportunities were possible because this country believed in investing in people and opening doors.

Today, what troubles me deeply is that because I have an accent, I can feel at risk. I feel like I need to carry my passport at all times just to prove that I belong. The idea that immigrants are being criminalized is not only painful—it is absurd. This country was built by immigrants.

To people my age, I would say this: we are all equal, and we still have the power to make a difference. We can teach younger generations what this country truly stood for. Do not believe the rhetoric of hate. Love is what made this country strong, and love is still the answer today.