Adult Immigrant
My mom, Miriam Cherem, moved from Caracas, Venezuela to Puerto Rico on the last day of 2008. She was born and raised in Caracas, so it was incredibly difficult for her to make this decision. I chose to interview her because she can provide an in-depth perspective as an immigrant who had to flee as an adult..
Miriam decided to emigrate Caracas after Chavez had been in power for almost 10 years. She had lived in Caracas all her life, and considered it her only home. Eventually, she realized it was time to find a new home. According to her, the city was so dangerous that “kidnappings and robberies were daily news; a week couldn’t go by without hearing about a friend or acquaintance who was in danger. ” She said that people in Venezuela no longer live, they only survive. |
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Basic necessities, including food and medicines, are no longer available for the people, due to the increasing inflation.
In the country’s current state, Miriam does not want to return, for she believes "life there is now a nightmare.” When asked if she regrets her decision to move at the time that she left, she replied “As a mother, no. I needed a secure place that would provide valuable opportunities for my children to grow. As a Venezuelan citizen, I wish I could’ve stayed to help the opposition movement, at least for a few years.” Although Miriam wishes she had stayed longer, she is glad that she immigrated to the United States. Grateful for all the opportunities that have been presented to her and her family, she appreciates democracy now more than ever. She enjoys the tranquility and freedom that characterize America and aspires to stay in the country for the rest of her life. However, she misses her home country and hopes to see it flourish once again. |