When people think about the immigration history of New Jersey, the contributions that Asian immigrants and Asian-Americans have made are undeniable. With the large Asian-American population in New Jersey, there are likely many responses to the proposed immigration reform that is being discussed in Congress. While many Asian-Americans are concerned about potential losses of family-based immigration categories, others are pleased that they may finally have a pathway to citizenship.
Diversity lottery program threatened by new immigration bill
There are people in the farthest corners of the planet who dream of moving to the United States, settling down and living the American dream. There are numerous people in Mercer County who have done just that -- moved to New Jersey, gotten a job and gone through the naturalization process to become U.S. citizens.
Claims of identity, citizenship not equal in deportation
Those wishing to immigrate to the United States know all too well that it's a long and complicated process involving seemingly endless amounts of paperwork. Having the proper documentation can make the difference between a successful path to citizenship and the road to deportation. Unfortunately, language barriers and legal jargon often prevent aspiring citizens from going the right direction, no matter how willing they are to take all of the necessary steps to become legal U.S. residents.
Federal program allows new Marines to take oath of citizenship
It may surprise some people in Newark that the United Sates military allows noncitizens to join the forces, but there has been a long history of individuals with permanent residency signing up to train and fight for the United States. Following 9/11, former President George W. Bush signed into law a bill that granted noncitizens the ability to apply for citizenship if they were in the military and, since then, the program has expanded tremendously. Now, all branches of the military allow for an expedited citizenship process for its members.
Immigration reform under debate, Obama leads the way
President Obama has received considerable support from immigrant groups and activists in the past and he has been very vocal about his desire to reform the immigration system. The president has recently been saying publically that Congress needs to start working on immigration reform immediately, and he is taking a tough stance on getting his overhaul through Congress. So, what does this mean for the immigrants living in New Jersey? It may mean that there will be various pathways to citizenship coming soon.
Armed service does not guarantee citizenship, stop deportation
It is something that many American citizens, permanent residents and undocumented immigrants in Newark may be shocked to learn, but serving in the U.S. military does not automatically grant citizenship or even put veterans on a path toward citizenship. There are no shortcuts when it comes to American naturalization and citizenship, even for those individuals who have bravely fought for our country.
