Threads of Resilience: The Stories of Immigrants Who Pave the Way

​​The experiences of immigrant families are rich with narratives of resilience, sacrifice, and aspiration. Their stories illustrate the complex duality in which they live — embracing the opportunities this nation provides while advocating for a more just and inclusive future. These personal accounts delve into our diverse cultural heritages, the challenges we face, and the unwavering spirit that drives us to envision a world where everyone can live in safety and with dignity. During Immigrant Heritage Month in June, we invite you to explore these compelling stories that honor the legacies of those who came before us and the vibrant communities who continue to shape our identities and aspirations.

We asked members of our staff to answer this question: How does being an immigrant or child of immigrants impact your identity and your view of your country and/or your life story?

Sam

Three of my grandparents immigrated to the United States after surviving unimaginable horrors during the Holocaust. After losing their entire families, they found refuge here, starting their lives over and creating new families. They believed in the promise of America as a nation where everyone could be free. But millions of people across this nation have not always been free and continue to be discriminated against by our government. My grandparents are gone now, but their legacy lives on in me as I fight for the civil and human rights of all people in America.

This photo is of my grandfather, Ben, with his two eldest grandchildren — my sister Haley and myself, Samantha. Photo circa 1989.

Nisreen

My entire family came to America fleeing ethnic cleansing, violence, and trauma. They learned English, studied hard, and worked long hours to give us first-generation kids a comfortable and safe life. They also raised us in a strong Arab American community that supports each other and enshrines our rich heritage and traditions into those born here. Today, America continues to perpetuate violence against my family’s homeland. It puts my family in a difficult place of loving the life America has given us and advocating for America to stop making migrants of our people. Everyone deserves to live in the safety and comfort we enjoy today, no matter where they are in the world. And for those who can’t, America should always be a place that welcomes those in need.

Emelynn

As a first-generation American and the daughter of two Colombian immigrants, my unique experience with Latinidad has profoundly shaped my identity. Growing up with so many representations of the vibrant culture, like the music, food, traditions, and strong family ties, I’ve grown to feel a strong connection to Colombian culture while also balancing my identity as an American. I feel a deep sense of pride in my cultural roots and proudly represent my Colombian American heritage any chance I get.

Rachel

Honduran by birth and now a U.S. citizen, I do not take my immigration story for granted. We do not choose our birthplace or conditions we are born into. Both the obstacles and the opportunities I’ve experienced have impacted me; we must refuse to accept obstacles and inequities as the status quo. It’s not one person’s responsibility — but everyone’s — to create the immigration change needed.

This photo is of me with my mom, Arlene, in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, when I was first adopted in 1987.

Oprah

Growing up as an immigrant taught me the importance of radical imagination. Imagining the world as it should be instead of succumbing to the injustices and marginalization imposed upon us. It taught me that liberation and opportunity are possible, but only if we come together as a community and envision a future built on equity and understanding. This collective effort requires empathy, resilience, and a commitment to transformative action, where each voice is heard and each struggle is acknowledged. Through solidarity and shared purpose, we can create a society that embraces diversity and fosters true inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute to the common good.

Tania

At a young age my mami made one of the toughest decisions of her entire life. She left the land she called home and everything she knew to birth me in a country where she had nothing, not even knowledge of the English language. I am forever inspired by her dreams and the life she envisioned for me before I was born. I am a proud daughter of Salvadoreños who continue to love fiercely despite the many barriers they face in this country. Because of them, I am strong in mind, body, and spirit. Because of them, I know I can overcome anything that comes my way.

Esteban

Being a first-generation Mexican American has motivated me to pursue opportunities where I can help others. My upbringing by the U.S./Mexico border has shaped my perspective rooted in resilience, empathy for the struggles of others, and courage to always work for a better world. I am proud to be a child of immigrants because my parents have contributed immensely to this country and they have given me the opportunity to dream big.