On this Immigration MIC episode we have Genesis speaking to us about her personal story/experiences from Arizona!

Genesis’ older brother was an organizer for the initial DREAM Act - her story is unconventional, given that since she was 10, she had always wanted to pursue a career in law, and after her brother was mistreated at the hands of police officers, Genesis decided to become involved fully in the immigration movement.

She opens up about having been discouraged in high school, letting her grades drop, but the passage of DACA being a turning point in helping her return to school, and continue pursuing her education.

Her work in Arizona along other activists is applauded nationally as ‘veterans of the movement’ because of laws like SB1070, - she talks to us about the ousting of Joe Arpaio, what the moment meant, and what it was like as they also were dealing with the news of Trump’s election. She also celebrates seeing her counterparts running for office and getting elected in local AZ communities.

The current political landscape - we discuss arguments between activists, what realistic expectations are for reform/relief, and her personal words for encouragement for people stepping forward in recent times.

Karina from the AZ Dream Act coalition makes a special appearance (pretty awesome!) and calls for undocumented parents to one day receive similar relief to DACA.

Thank you Genesis for being so positive, grounded, and being willing to share with us your experiences - and thankful you find the strength everyday to continue pushing for immigration reform!