When you meet her for the first time you would think that her life has been milk and honey. Her happy and bubbly disposition might deceive you into thinking that her childhood was that of a Disney princess. But sitting with her and listening to her stories, you will realize that she is nothing but a courageous woman who defied the odds of many immigrant stories. And this is Jamila Rahime, a 61-year-old mother of two who fled Afghanistan at the age of 17 to live an American dream. Her unique journey and struggles from Afghanistan to Japan, Germany then finally to the United States could be a story of many other immigrants out there who have left their homes in pursuit of a better … [Read more...] about From Afghanistan to the United States: The tale of a woman who defied the odds
immigrant
The American Dream or the American Nightmare?
By Carolina Curiel, Samantha Baker, and Irann Arias Rodriguez Immigrant students and advocates share the challenges and hardships of attaining a higher education in an effort to create their American Dream. The United States has been seen as a token for the American Dream- a place of economic opportunity and social liberty. Immigrants from all around the globe come to America in hopes of fulfilling their goals and aspirations. Many seek refuge, a higher education, or simply a better life. To the average American, immigration may seem like an easy task. However, many fail to realize the number of sacrifices that must be made on a day-to-day basis. According to the … [Read more...] about The American Dream or the American Nightmare?
Independent film sends a message
By Devin Ramos | Staff Writer | The independent film, “Smuggled,” directed by Ramon Hamilton, is a genuine drama created to answer "why immigrants cross the border," and put viewers in the shoes of the illegal immigrants. The film was screened at CSUSB in the John M. Pfau Library Oct. 10 and tells the story of Miguel and his mother as they embark on a journey towards America as stowaways on a bus. Miguel, played by Ramsses Letrado, is being questioned by two police officers, played by Cisco Marcial and Garrett Marchbank, whom are trying to help Miguel but struggle to gain his trust as he suspects that they are trying to deport him. “Smuggled” is a strong independent film that … [Read more...] about Independent film sends a message
Tolerance for undocumented immigrants rising
By Andrew Hucks |Staff Writer| It’s been nearly 20 years since Proposition 187 was passed in California barring illegal immigrants from using publicly funded education and healthcare. According to a recent poll by USC Dornsife/LA Times, sentiments have swayed quite a bit in favor of leniency on illegal immigrants already here, while getting more stiff on border security and enforcement. Proposition 187 has five major sections: it barred illegal immigrants from using public education and public health clinics, required proof of legal status for cash assistance, required service providers to report illegals to the INS, and it made the use of false documents a felony, according to … [Read more...] about Tolerance for undocumented immigrants rising
Undocumented, unafraid and unapologetic
By Courtney Sims |Staff Writer| Twelve Immigrant Youth Coalition (IYC) protestors were arrested on Jan. 24, outside of City Hall in San Bernardino during a sit-in called “Undocumented and Unafraid.” Of the 12 arrested, 10 may face deportation. Protestors sat-in in front of the Department of Homeland Security’s field office and Downtown City Hall to protest the treatment of undocumented residents. “No papers, no fear. Immigrants are marching here,” chanted group members. Other hot button issues included the Secure Communities program, in which the FBI automatically sends fingerprints to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to check against its immigration databases to … [Read more...] about Undocumented, unafraid and unapologetic
Marathon Man
By Jovani Gama |Asst. Sports Editor| For a 42-year-old dishwasher, running is not only a hobby, but a passion, an escape and ultimately, a way of life. Tony Torres came to the United States from Mexico at a very young age. The oldest of ten siblings, Torres found himself in a position in which school had to be pushed aside in order to work and help his father maintain the household. “I went to school in Fresno,” said Torres. “I had to work to help my father take care of my 10 brothers and sisters.” It was in high school, however, where Torres found a love for running. He began training in the 9th grade. “We won everything in the San Joaquin Valley in Fresno. As a team we … [Read more...] about Marathon Man
Immigrant “Dreams” approved
by Lena Torres | Staff Writer| The California Dream Act has officially passed. Governor Jerry Brown has signed AB-131, the second part of the California Dream Act, officially making the bill a law. The first part of the bill was signed earlier this year in July. The Dream Act makes illegal immigrants “eligible to apply for and participate in all student financial aid programs administered by the State of California to the full extent permitted by federal law,” according to the bill itself. Beginning next July, illegal immigrants will be eligible for state scholarships and financial aid, if they meet certain qualifications. California is the third state to pass the legislation following … [Read more...] about Immigrant “Dreams” approved