By Alejandra Londono Gomez:

As we kick off National Immigrant Heritage Month, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the stories and experiences of those who have made the difficult journey to start a new life in the United States. Immigration is a deeply personal issue for me, as this August will be the 20th anniversary of my immigration journey. While people have many reasons for choosing to immigrate to the United States, one thing that unites us all is the hope for a better life. Whether escaping political persecution or other dangers, reuniting with family members, or pursuing better economic opportunities, the decision to leave one’s home country and start over in a new land is never an easy one. It is a story of struggle, hardship, and sacrifice—but also one of hope, resilience, and determination.

Unfortunately, our immigration policies can often make that journey even more difficult. Over the past few years, we’ve seen several changes to our immigration and asylum system that have made it harder for people to legally come to the United States. From travel bans to asylum rules to ripping families apart at the border—many of these policies violate the human rights of those who are just searching for a better life. I have witnessed families being torn apart, dreams shattered, and lives destroyed. I have seen the fear and anxiety that many immigrants face every day as they worry about their status and the safety of their loved ones. But I have also seen the incredible strength and resilience of the immigrant community as we band together to support one another, fight for our rights, and make a better life for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Everyone must stand in solidarity with our immigrant community by fighting for a more just and equitable immigration system that respects the dignity and humanity of all people.

As we celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, we must remember that behind every policy and every statistic, there’s a human story. There are the stories of the parents who risked everything to give their children a better life, the stories of the children who grow up with the weight of their parents’ sacrifices on their shoulders, and the stories of the millions of people who have left their homes and their countries in search of a better future.

Over the next few weeks, we will share the stories of community members who have immigrated to the United States. Their stories remind us of the power of hope, resilience, and the incredible contributions immigrants make to our society. We hope you’ll join us in celebrating Immigrant Heritage Month and that you’ll take the time to read their powerful stories.

Please visit this page to read a handful of stories that exemplify the immigrant experience in this country.