John,
My name is Paulina Lee Reza. I am an undocumented educator in California and one of the first participants of Immigrants Rising’s UndocuEducators Beyond DACA program.
It’s been a few days since the election. During this time, I am reflecting on what this might mean for the entire undocumented community.
Growing up, my parents always told me, el que quiere puede, “Whoever wants to, can.” But especially being undocumented, we know achieving that is no easy feat. After years of working multiple jobs — including retail and cleaning houses with my mom — while taking night classes, I transferred from my community college and finally received my bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University.
If it weren’t for my family’s love, solidarity from my undocumented peers, and our collective strength, I would not be in the position I am today — someone who gets to support undocumented students through their education journeys with deep care. Now as a professional, it’s programs for UndocuEducators and meeting passionate undocumented leaders that allow me to keep striving and dreaming for an even brighter future for myself, my family, and my students.
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