|
Dear John, Basi Alonso, one of our inspiring leaders and our National Director of Leadership Programs at New American Leaders (NAL), recently shared her story with us. Basi’s journey—from feeling voiceless as an undocumented immigrant to empowering New Americans across the country in her role at NAL—illustrates the transformative power of community and shared purpose. Basi’s story reminds us that building an inclusive democracy requires each of us. Together, we can support more leaders who understand what it means to stand for their communities, and who know the challenges firsthand. This Thanksgiving, we invite you to be part of this movement to empower voices like Basi’s, helping New Americans to run, win, and lead.
Thank you for standing with us. Happy Thanksgiving!
Q: What socio political challenges did you observe before getting involved with NAL? What did you want to change? A: When I was growing up, those in positions of power were not representative of the community in which I lived. As a result, many of my neighbors felt voiceless. Sometimes, the barriers to access were simply due to the fact that government and anything related to government seemed incredibly complex and out of reach. Other times, it was because there were language barriers and cultural barriers, and for some, exposing their immigration status was too risky. I know that’s how I felt. Being undocumented, I was taught to keep my head down and go unnoticed because there was safety in going unnoticed. Q: What motivated you to take action? How is being part of the NAL community helping you make change? A: Trying to go unnoticed, for me, meant accepting the status quo, accepting the feelings of alienation and the idea that my experiences and my voice were something to be ashamed of. In the 2010s, I began to share my story publicly and found a community. It was only through organizing with that community that I stopped feeling alone and ashamed and began to believe that change was possible regardless of my status. Fighting for change is never easy, but it is possible with community. Today, I'm deeply honored to be a part of another community - the NALpista community where I get to [support] New American changemakers who share a vision for our country: one where we all belong and all voices are heard, regardless of race, immigration status, socioeconomic status, and beyond. Q: What have you learned from your journey with NAL? A: Throughout my three years at NAL, I’ve been inspired and filled with hope by the stories of people in our community. Although the path to building a just and inclusive world is long and includes some uncharted territory, if we stay true to our values, mission, and people, we can get there. I know sometimes it feels like we won’t get there, especially given the climate we are in. But every time a NALpista feels empowered in their story and finds community at NAL, we are creating change. Q: What are your hopes for the future? A: My hope is that we continue to welcome new NALpistas and see both current and new alumni create change. Whether it’s running for office, working on campaigns, or using their powerful voices in whatever way makes sense, I hope they know they are enough, they belong, and they are the leaders our communities deserve. Q: How can others help make a difference? A: A movement takes all of us. Each and everyone of us can help make a difference by stepping up to serve when we are called, by supporting those who are stepping up, and by encouraging others to step up. And of course, you can help by supporting NAL and our programs that enable New Americans to run, win, and lead. |
|
