Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen Pdf
"Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" is a memoir by Jose Antonio Vargas, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, and an undocumented immigrant. In this book, Vargas shares his personal experiences of growing up and living in the United States as an undocumented immigrant. He provides a firsthand account of the struggles, fears, and challenges faced by the undocumented community in the US.
Who is Jose Antonio Vargas and Why Did He Write "Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen"?
Jose Antonio Vargas is a journalist, filmmaker, and immigration activist. He was born in the Philippines and came to the US when he was 12 years old to live with his grandparents. He discovered that he was undocumented when he tried to get a driver's license at the age of 16, and his life has been a series of challenges ever since.
Vargas wrote "Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" to raise awareness about the undocumented immigrant experience and to call for immigration reform. He wanted to humanize the issue and share his personal story to educate and inspire others.
What is "Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" About?
"Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" is a personal account of Vargas' life as an undocumented immigrant. He shares his experience of growing up in California, attending school, and trying to live a normal life as an American teenager. He struggled with the fear of being discovered and deported and the constant worry that he would never be able to achieve his dreams.
The book also explores the larger issue of immigration in the US and the political debates that have surrounded the issue. Vargas delves into the history of immigration laws and policies and how they have affected the lives of millions of undocumented immigrants in the US. He notes the need for comprehensive immigration reform and the importance of providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
Major Themes in "Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen"
There are several major themes in "Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen," including:
- Fear and Anxiety: Vargas describes the constant fear and anxiety he and other undocumented immigrants face every day. They worry about being discovered, deported, and separated from their families.
- Identity: Vargas struggles with his sense of identity and belonging as an undocumented immigrant. He feels like he doesn't really belong anywhere and that he is constantly living a lie.
- Immigration Policy: The book explores the history of immigration policies and laws in the US and how they have affected the lives of millions of undocumented immigrants. Vargas argues for comprehensive immigration reform and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
- The American Dream: Vargas discusses the American Dream and how it is out of reach for many undocumented immigrants. He talks about the challenges they face in achieving their dreams and the need for a more inclusive society.
Why is "Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" Important?
"Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" is important because it sheds light on the undocumented immigrant experience in the US. It humanizes the issue and provides a personal account of the struggles and challenges faced by millions of undocumented immigrants. The book also highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
Vargas' story is not unique, and there are millions of undocumented immigrants in the US who face similar challenges and obstacles. By sharing his personal story, Vargas hopes to inspire and educate others about the undocumented immigrant experience and the need for change.
Conclusion
"Dear America Notes Of An Undocumented Citizen" is a powerful and moving memoir that provides a firsthand account of the undocumented immigrant experience in the US. Vargas shares his personal story to highlight the challenges and obstacles faced by millions of undocumented immigrants and to call for comprehensive immigration reform. This book is an important read for anyone interested in learning more about the issues facing undocumented immigrants in the US.
