I've been inundated all weekend with calls from people here who want to stay and fight for a fair resolution. I've heard from people who've been here as long as 20 years who are still not giving up on America. Yeah, some people are saying they're moving out, but most of them are talking about going to England or Australia, no-one's talking about going back to Ireland.
Interestingly, it turns out more than 12,000 people a year are going to Australia from Ireland on the working holiday visa. Wow. That's solid proof that Irish people are still leaving Ireland. They're just not coming here.
What do YOU think? Is it time to give up on America? Or is it time to redouble our efforts? If you're undocumented, please let me know what you plan on doing.
114 comments:
I'm staying - can't imagine living anywhere else! The thing is, living in the US isn't just about making money or good weather, though that is nice too! Its understanding that you can make it on your own merit, regardless of your background; its a sense of community and cooperation in a melting pot of nationalities; and its knowing that an organization like the ILIR can make a difference at the highest level. Thanks for giving us a voice.
Want more than anything to stay here, but at what cost, should we now be living in fear. Im all about doubling efforts, but realistically what are the chances of something actually happening.
C'mon lads. This was always going to be a tough fight; we can't just fold at the first big hurdle. I'm in construction and it would take me years to get set up in Ireland, never mind Australia or England. Even if the worst came to the worst and we have to wait til after the presidential election, I'm still going to be in better shape here rather than starting up somewhere new. Anyway, I don't believe that the Irish Government is going to abandon us. There has to be a way out of this.
As long as they don't leave us hanging for ever. I trust Dermot Ahern though. He really seems to care that we're Irish citizens. I'm not packing in until they make me....
i agree with Joe and anonymous there..i came here and got into construction.I didnt work in that field in Ireland and would be starting from scratch all over again.I also have kids here now and dont want to move them to Ireland and let them miss out on the experience of living in this great country. It is a little disheartening but we have to keep our heads up. I think we will get some help in the future ecspecially with the ILIR with us....Thanx guys for all your hard work
I have been here for over 10 years, and soon I won't be able to drive. I live in the suburbs so it will make living here very difficult.I don't know how I would manage if I had to start over again back home. I live in hope that the Irish government can help us now. Thanks for all the hard work everyone has put in to help us!!!
its great to read the bloggers who are still staying positive, i wish i could feel the same, i seem to go back & forward on how i am thinking about the whole situation, from one day to the next. when i speak to friends they all say they are moving on, but no one is actually moving home. Lately when i walk to work i see every other house is for sale in our area & i'm wondering is it time for us to move back home. Then i speak to my parents & they are telling me theres nothing at home. i guess if i were single with just myself to look after it would be different, i could simply move on somewhere else, i'm as adventurous as the next person, but i have two young boys now, both American citizens & i know there are better opportunities for them here. But how long can you live like this? everyday is a struggle, just doing simple everyday things with two kids & no car.
Want to stay here more than anything but when you have no drivers license any ideas on how I can renew it. Think Irish government will fight for us but how long is it going to take.
I have been here 15 yrs. Im 25 now and im not gonna be held hostage anymore by this country. There are other places around the world that would love to have an educated person.... Remember Senator Vitter? the main opponent of granting legal status/amnesty.. Well someone should call him and ask him, if he thinks he should receive amnesty for sleeping with prostitutes....damn hypocrit http://apnews.myway.com/article/20070710/D8Q9MF400.html
American was something special 15 yrs ago. Now its just crap. i have heard from many Irish that moved back to Ireland or Europe in general and most of them said "Why didnt i move back earlier, what the hell was i doing there (US)
Good luck all
It`s time for our allies and powerful friends to jump off the fence and come down favourably on our side. Carefully crafted statements, spin and talking around the subject just aren`t cutting it with me anymore.
Strong, immediate, decisive action has to come next.
As an example of what I mean, people say they`re studying a well known BL agreement. There isn`t much to study, it basically was an addendum to a Free Trade Agreement, largely a goodwill gesture that was tacked on to the Treaty, and it`s not rocket science to discover that the main benificiaries are and will be qualified professionals.
On a different note, presently at the NYPD Acamemy, there are 68 foreign born nationalities enrolled.
Can anyone find out how many, if any, are Irish born.
The Irish are disappearing, and it`s not a magic show.
pathetic!
Is there any chance the Irish government would issue drivers licenses in exchange for US drivers licenses to the undocumented to help us out!!!!
The Irish are disappearing
Fantastic!
The Irish Government should stand up to the American Government and demand that the Irish be legalized in return for the use of Shannon airport.
A friend of mine who is lucky enough to have a visa just flew through there a few weeks ago and said it has been taken over by american troops.
The Irish Government should have thought of this years ago. It is not just in the last 5 years that the Irish have started coming here illegally!!!!!!
I came here 5 years ago on a visa and never went home. I wouldn't be here illegally if there was any other option for being here. I really don't hold out much hope anymore. I held out this long hoping for something to happen but it looks like it is time to move on.
I think we're forgetting that this particular fight for us is less than two years old. People I knew who got the Morrison and Donnellys were involved in that for more than four years. There was no-one fighting for us before the ILIR got started. I remember ringing the so-called immigration centers and getting the equivalent of a blank stare by phone. I don't know if I'm going to get a green card or a visa out of this effort but I'm not giving up until it's all over. I'll quit when the ILIR quits and not before.
Siobhan dont come pair the suition now to the Donnelly and Mrossison because they are not even close.We can not get driving licenses, we can not get tax numbers,the only jobs you can get with out these things is dead end jobs with nothing to reach for.With out these things you will all ways be the employe never the boss . So wake up people America dosent care we are too few ,its up to the Irish goverment to do some thing soon befor its to late
Eddie Armstrong
I love your comment, anonymous:
I wouldn't be here illegally if there was any other option for being here.
I should try that at a bank: "I wouldn't be sticking you up if there was any other option for me being rich."
I just received my first issue of Irish America magazine and found this website from an article.
As an American with Irish descent who dearly loves Ireland, I am one who only discovered a short while ago that there were actually Irish people living in America who were labeled 'illegals'. I do not think the 'regular' people like myself even realize this. So, I would say: STAY AND GET THE MESSAGE OUT THERE THAT THIS SITUATION EXISTS! I am from North Carolina (my Irish descentents are what was called the Scots/Irish who settled in the Mountains--Not all of your support is going to come from Boston, New York, or Chicago. Get the message to each State. If only a few people in each State get on board, contact our Legislators where it hurts, through our votes--we can make a difference. I do not think it is a Republican/Democrat Issue, I think it is a 'money' issue. No politician is going to vote on something they think will effect the economy (losing the cheap labor).
As an American I want to say that we love you, you are our Ancestors, our pride, a part of who and what we are. I know there are millions out there who feel just as I do, and by golly if we band together we can rectify this!
I am on board, I plan to start tomorrow letting everyone I know that this situation exists and should be separated from the existing 'Immigration" issue.
Siobhan, well said! The ILIR is not going to quit. Niall, Ciaran & Kelly & all the Voulenteers have put to much time and effort in to this. They are 100% committed to getting everyone a visa. Some people may not know ths, but this is a 24hr 7day a week fight for all of them. They put their hearts & souls into this.
All the Irish undocumented & documented need to stay and work
to get a visa deal worked out with the US.
The future of Irish America needs it.
Lads,
This question has different answers. People do what they can under the circumstances. The problem is that we've seen the past, know the present, but we don't know what the future holds for immigration reform--and this makes people very nervous about life choices.
Obviously there are many, many people who've made lives here in the US and can't pick up and leave any time soon. They have to keep the fight going; I think there's no choice.
We know that comprehensive reform won't happen until next Congress, in 2009, but incremental bills may be possible. This is where we should pressure our friends in Congress and elsewhere.
Start by a very accepted point: those who have roots in their communities should be legalized immediately! Such an act has the support of the majority of Americans and, strangely, many in the GOP who opposed the last legislation.
Instead of setting an arbitrary date [like Dec 31, 2006... something that upset many people], set a number of years in the US. If a person has been here for several years, has stayed out of trouble, etc, then he/she already is an American in essense. People can understand this, and it's easier to pass something like this through this Congress by the end of the year.
Write to Sens. Kennedy and Leahy (D) and to Specter (R) and to your local reps.
Another avenue is to incorporate into the Dream Act all those imms who have gotten a college education in the US, etc.
Incremental steps that do make a positive difference are good.... better than waiting for the big bill, which in today's political climate can't come.
Lastly, I think there shouldn'd be a breakup of the front for imm. reform, by saying, "look, we're Irish, we should get preferential treatment." I don't think it'd be a winning strategy.
Above all, in the next months before the next general election and the primaries (don't forget this very important selection process) we have to make it politically costly to those who oppose meaningful (or any) imm. reform.
Now that the Democrats have a majority share of both houses, and it seems likely that a Democrat will take the next Presidential election (come on Hilary)? Is it possible that another bill could be pushed through... and why was the last one done so soon before easter?? I know you want to pass it as quickly as possible, but timing is everything!!
Ád Mhór Órt mó chairde!!! You need to keep fighting hard so when I make the journey over in less than two years I will not have to fight as hard!!
Given that the DREAM act seems to be given a new chance, maybe something else will become available for us?
BEWARE IRISH LIVING IN AMERICA! LIVE HERE LONG ENOUGH YOUR GRANDCHILDREN WON"T BE WELCOME BACK TO YOUR HOMELAND!! love, DECLINED Irish American
Unless there is Immigration reform
soon there will not be to many grandchildren of the Irish who live here now that will have to worry about that!
Irish are leaving for Ireland and other countries everyday now.
The failed Immigration reform bill
was the last chance a lot of them had to stay here.
Labhaoise
Please dont think the Democrts will pass a bill, these are the same cowards that blocked this one. Homeland secuirty is so much better now both sides blocked the bill and any chance of keeping America safe is lost .W e keep our cheap labour force blame them for using up our social services they can get.And some dopes think we done the right thing. This is why you keep most people badley educated you abuse them and they think you done them a favour. The heartland in this country is like a battered wife the more the goverment walks on them the more they think its because they care Thank you Jeff (if i was any stupider i would be a rock) Sessions . You realy made our country safe
Noel Fitsroy
I'm scared now ,i have been here almost 9 years and i unfortunately don't know how long i can live like this ,no drivers licence ,no freedom ,I am hopefull that something will change ,but I just see the years going by .I haven't been home in 8 years ,and its getting harder and harder to stay away .I love America and hope that our voices will be heard Thanks to the ILIR.
HELP US PLEASE!!!! That's all I can ask of the Irish government now! Are they prepared for all of us to land back on the Irish shores, signing on the dole while we look for work and putting our names on the housing & drivers licencing lists? There are some very long waiting lists!!!!
I'm staying till I'm thrown out. I came to San Francisco 15 years ago and I've turned myself into a pretzel trying to get legal. I hate these people who shout about getting in line. There IS NO F**CKING LINE. I've spent thousands of dollars and wasted thousands of hours finding that one out. What makes me mad is this country should be glad it's still able to attract immigrants.
well said ed , dont think ill be trading san fran for sunny tyrone any time soon either.good luck all
I'm a 42 years old Brazilian male living here in the U.S.A for the last 17 years, and never return home since then.
I got to a point now that I feel that I'm on that TV. Show "LOST" maybe when I was on the airplane flying to the U.S it crashed and I'm dead, because these is the feeling that I'm having now.
The U.S is the Island that we struggle to survive but if we leave this Island what will be waiting for us out there?
NOW VERY IMPORTANT!
I'm trying to finish my bachelors in legal studies and I just found out that every male "legal or illegal" by the age of 25 years and older should REGISTER WITH THE U.S "SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM" because if one day you will be need anything related to the immigration and naturalization services and you are a male you should have been registered already.
Good lucky everybody!
Hi all
Just found this article re the new Specter bill?
Thought you would find it interesting?
http://www.numbersusa.com/hottopic/specterproposal.html
Good luck
The Irish and the Mexicans should take to the streets. How the hell could a bunch of hick lobbyists from Numbers USA highjack the immigration reform bill ?
Combined the Irish and Mexicans can muster enough clout to crush these die hard, idiots in the Senate.
Lets get together and take them on.
Wow, I had absolutely no idea that there were that many illegal Irish here in America!
First, welcome lads, my family has been here some 4 generations before me, so I can't claim to understand much more than what I can read. However, a few things strike me, that I hope you'll at least consider.
First, if you live here, you should already know that there is a massive amount of pride among those whose families came here before you. I wonder that perhaps you haven't considered this in the proper light.
Has anyone considered the idea of organized help? If there's one thing the Irish Immigrants did well, it was organize. Why not apply that same determination here?
In fairness, if you're illegal you did break the law. However, if you're working and contributing to society there's no reason you should be hiding like thieves.
It might mix politics, but organizations like Wives of the IRA are present at most Irish festivals, at least here in Philadelphia. I don't think it would be overly difficult to get them, or groups like them, involved in helping to solves this problem. The AOH clubs all across the country could be mustered, and you could couple it with a campaign to help certain other issues.
For instance: Irish Immigrants for Marriage Reform.
Look, I'm on the exact opposite side of this issue for the most part. I don't want illegals here. But that doesn't mean I don't want YOU here. I just want you to be legal. Follow the rules, and apply where you should.
Call your local congress person, and they WILL help you. A good friend of mine was at his wit's end when I met him, he's from New Zealand. He didn't know what to do, or where to turn. I looked up his local rep, and it was solved within weeks.
I also think it's a big mistake to throw your lot in with the illegal Mexicans. I don't think it's at ALL the same issue. I'll check back, I'm willing to help, just tell me how.
thanks paradigm!! spread the word,,, we need all the help we can get at this stage!
I think it's great we are standing up and fighting for something worthwhile instead of sitting around complaining about it. Hats off to all who participated!!!
I'm just amazed that our very own Government have turned there backs on the irish abroad implementing a new no benefits for 2 years rule it's hard enough trying to live in a foreign country and not be able to avail of basic civil liberties but now our own county has turned again us!!! No wonder there are so many irish living abroad.
Ok there now trying to do something but that's after almost 2 years of campaning!!!! Well done lads better late than never I guess!!!!
What about the illegal English? What about us?
Hi Samantha, heard you`re doing good work over there. Your dad was telling me. Jack Purcell
My name is Samantha - Jack Purcell from where - not sure if you are referring to my dad.
Where do you know my dad from?
The latest news if getting the "Dream" act thru which is wonderful news, and then the AgriJob labours thru - so what about the rest of us that have owned tax paying businesses for many years?
Hello Irish People!
Thanks for Building this Country.
Thanks for the NYPD and FDNY.
Thanks for paying your taxes.
Thanks for Shannon Airport.
Thanks for your bowl of Shamrock.
Thanks and In return:
No Visas/Greencards
No Travel Permits
No Identity
No Drivers Licenses
No Health Insurance
No Life
have a nice day...... America xx
I read the link to the DMV.
Just one questio (if anyone has the answer) - if you reside in NYS and have an out of state expired license - do you also have to wait until 2008?
Thanks again for a great blog - and good luck to all
Has anyone started receiving the letters from the DMV yet?
I missed the 'DMV'' thing ! What letters ? What is the link to the DMV ?
Anyone ?
Thanks !!!
Okay, I have just read on the nydaily news website that Gov.Spitzer is making changes to the whole license thing.
There will be different licenses for legal and illegal.
So whats the point - if you have a valid drivers license and the cops pull you over - they recognise the "special" license, associated with being here illegally, they then deport you?
Not sure how this is all going to work out?
Again good luck - all
Does anybody know what happened tot he couple that had been here a really long time - but who's husband got stopped - had no license and then ordered to leave the US.
Was curious as to whether they are here fighting to stay - or have they sold up all there wordly possessions and left to go back to the UK.
Spitzer is changing his mind - it really doesn't look good for us.
Our last hope was the NY license.
Thats gone - all hope is lost.
We have been here for a very very long time - tired of feeling like a hunted animal. We are selling all our homes, buinesses and going back. I am so so tired.
Just as 74% of all "Americans" want us to do - "self deport"
Congrats Lou Dobbs - you win and two out of three others do too.
hello everyone, i am newly arrived in florida from Belfast and not sure of how to go about looking for work would love to have some tips, doesnt seem to be as big and irish community as in new york here, so i feel a bit lost
Our best hope to legalize the Irish is to realign ourselves with Congressman Peter King, who realises that the American people do not trust their government on immigration;they want to see the border secured first, then negotiations can begin on who can qualify to stay
There are quite some people from the original EU-Visa Waiver Program (England, Ireland, Netherlands, Germany, France...) in this difficult position and have become victims of the radical rethoric on immigration. Having a family, incl. 2 children make it very hard if a country that you love the most take away all opportunities to earn your money in a hard working honest way. How to survive until 2009? With no guarantee if we will have a President and a Congress that could make the right chances.
I read that Vietnam has recently agreed to accept deported Vietnamese nationals from the US. Does the Irish government have such a treaty with the US?
I believe the irish government has abandoned the undocumented irish in America as they did with the catholics in the six counties in 1969.'THEY ARE STANDING IDLEY BYE'.
There is no hope. I'm moving to Brazil. Warm winters, warm ladies, and strong economy. Estas bo!
Hello! Would anyone mind answering some questions for a college assignment I am writing? The paper is on people who have moved to the US from Ireland.
Thanks!
anonymous said...hello i lived in new york for 8 years as an illegal.and like you all loved america and the people made a lot of great friends.had o lot of good times to also worked hard.i am home over two years and ireland just is not the same place any more.every day just reminds me why i left in the first place.so keep up the hard work i do believe something is going to come out of all this hard work by the ilir.do not give up.how sick would you be if most people do move home and then it happened and you not there after deing there for years.stick it out........
Thank you, Anonymous. When you were living in New York, did your view of the world change from when you lived in Ireland? How so?
Thanks again.
Amy
i cannot believe the statement Bertie Ahern came out with on St Paddy's Day! He new so many irish would be listening & hopeful that he would, at least try to help us. we're a "bunch of people sitting in a bar talking nonsense!!" with a statement like that, he's the one, that sounds like he just came out of a bar. Amnesty?? who ever mentioned amnesty??? for a Taoiseach to come out with a statement like that is just ridiculous!
LET ME SAY, AHERNS PROBLEM IS THAT HE IS AFRAID TO SAY ANYTHING ABOUT IMMIGRATION IN THE WHITE HOUSE. JUST IN CASE HE DOESN'T GET HIS FREE LUNCH AND FLIGHT NEXT YEAR ON ST. PADDY'S DAY. HE PROVED HOW PATHETHIC,WEAK AND STUPID HE IS AGAINST AMERICAN POLITICS. WAS THAT NOT ONE OF THE PURPOSES OF HIS TRIP!!!!LOBBY FOR IMMIGRATION AND STOP TRYING TO KISS ASS. A CLEVER IRISH GOVERNMENT SHOULD OF HAD US OUR GREEN CARDS THE DAY AMERICA ASKED THEM TO FUEL THEIR PLANES IN SHANNON !!!! WE'LL GET THEIR WITH OR WIYHOUT THEIR HELP.WHERES THERE SO CALLED GREAT RELATIONSHIP WITH AMERICA AT NOW????
LET ME SAY, AHERNS PROBLEM IS THAT HE IS AFRAID TO SAY ANYTHING ABOUT IMMIGRATION IN THE WHITE HOUSE. JUST IN CASE HE DOESN'T GET HIS FREE LUNCH AND FLIGHT NEXT YEAR ON ST. PADDY'S DAY. HE PROVED HOW PATHETHIC,WEAK AND STUPID HE IS AGAINST AMERICAN POLITICS. WAS THAT NOT ONE OF THE PURPOSES OF HIS TRIP!!!!LOBBY FOR IMMIGRATION AND STOP TRYING TO KISS ASS. A CLEVER IRISH GOVERNMENT SHOULD OF HAD US OUR GREEN CARDS THE DAY AMERICA ASKED THEM TO FUEL THEIR PLANES IN SHANNON !!!! WE'LL GET THEIR WITH OR WIYHOUT THEIR HELP.WHERES THERE SO CALLED GREAT RELATIONSHIP WITH AMERICA AT NOW????
BERTIE MUST GO!
He has lost control of himself.
Even his most ardent supporters must realize he has lied to the Mahon Tribunal.
I wish I was in a position to 'not remember' such an insignificant sum of money as fifteen thousand sterling. His friends, to their credit .... or maybe not ... have defended him.
His statement in Washington DC about the undocumented Irish was the final straw. How dare he be so dismissive of such a large segment of the Irish community.
He has lost all credibility!
As the Irish economy slips towards recession, I cannot see him in power after the summer.
GOOD RIDDANCE!!!!!!
Lou Ferpo
As a parent of an undocumented son I personally appreciate all the hard work the I.L.I.R. have done in the past few years in fighting for the Irish in the U.S. I attended the rally in April and heard Dermot Ahern state that the Irish Government has been and will continue to do everything in their power to support the Irish undocumented in the U.S. Instead they have chosen to abandon them.
I think Bertie is telling his own story when he speaks of sitting in bars as he appears to conduct a lot of his business in Fagans Bar in Drumcondra with his cronies.Plotting and scheeming his untold lies.!! They think by throwing a few dollars in the I.L.I.R.fund (when in actual fact what they contribute would hardly pay for Berties fare to Washington) it will keep them quiet for a while as that seems to be Berties policy.Keep up the good work as all us parents have faith in ye.
Hopefully Bertie will soon be ousted for all his lies and deceipt and then we can move forward in a favourable manner.
Again thanks to all for yere untold help an support.
Abide by the LAW! I came to the US ten years ago and had to pay about $10k in lawyer fees so I could get my green card processed. I had to follow a very strict procedure (i.e.) had to have key skills that the US economy was looking for. Now I am a citizen. YOU ARE ILLEGAL. It would be something if you had important skills like IT, medical etc. MOst of you however are just construction type workers that anybody with a pulse could do. YOU ARE NOT WANTED - if you were any good there would not be a debate on this issue. GO HOME.
The last comment regarding abiding the law was pathetic and the reference to the "just construction type workers that anybody with a pulse could do" was totally uncalled for.Each and every one of us contribute to the society of America every day,some in construction,some in caring,teaching,clerical the list goes on.Your negativity will not deter us.
The last comment regarding abiding the law was pathetic and the reference to the "just construction type workers that anybody with a pulse could do" was totally uncalled for.Each and every one of us contribute to the society of America every day,some in construction,some in caring,teaching,clerical the list goes on.Your negativity will not deter us.
On the last 2 comments:
Yes, illegal immigrants do work jobs we won't (at least not for those wages or hours). And yes, the overall economic benefits from their presence and labor outweigh the costs.
But those illegal immigrants must also realize this: in the current political climate -- (with a focus on national security, a faulty economy, and racial/ethnic tensions) -- American voters simply will not allow comprehensive immigration reform to pass unless the illegal immigrant community first admits that yes, they did break the law.
Until that happens, until the illegal immigrant community accepts and embraces paying some penance (and it may be significant), no relief will be provided to them by Congress.
It's a tough situation, but that's what the landscape is. That's the political reality.
Hi There
My brother was arrested and detained out on friday last week. He is illegal and was caught by border patrol on a bus. He is now in a prison in the state he was arrested in and we dont know whats going to happen next. does anyone know how long it could take before he is deported.
Thanks,
I honestly think that those of us who have made our lives here would have no problem paying a fine if thats what is required from us in order to become legal in this country.
The majority of us here are hard working people who are here because we want to be.
I honestly think that those of us who have made our lives here would have no problem paying a fine if thats what is required from us in order to become legal in this country.
The majority of us here are hard working people who are here because we want to be.
I honestly think that those of us who have made our lives here would have no problem paying a fine if thats what is required from us in order to become legal in this country.
The majority of us here are hard working people who are here because we want to be.
Answering the last comment:
You will be very fortunate if a reform package:
1) is even implemented in the near future (nothing is going to happen until early 2009 at least)
2) it only involves a fine and not any kind of temporary return to one's home country (which has been an aspect of many bills in Congress)
You're really at the mercy of the American voter, and right now, with all the economic issues, the war, and the housing bust, the average American is not in a terribly generous mood. It's unfortunate, but for now the best you can do is keep working hard, keep your head down, and try to hang on until 2009.
To work hard and to keep our heads down is all we have ever known.
On the above comment. I think the Irish have moved on from this working class image.
I was downright daring and unbelievably lucky to reverse my illegal status through an application for a work sponsored visa and subsequent interview at the US Consulate in Dublin, after spending a year in NY undocumented. It was “All or nothing” for me.
Just last year I got married to “My better half and my reason for being in NY”. It frustrates me that I cannot help my illegal spouse to rectify his legal status until I am an American Citizen, approximately an 8-year wait for us. It has been 9 years since he was “home”, even though we own a house in NY.
Just last week I attended the funeral of my uncle in Ireland. A tragic sudden death. Standing with my parents, my brothers, sisters, cousins, friends, relations, friends of friends, hundreds maybe thousands of people, in that windy grey graveyard I wondered what my husband would miss while he waited. We can’t even hope to build in America the extended family ties and community support so open to us in Ireland?
So, why wait? For a job, for a wage, for prosperity, for monentary assurance, for wealth, for the kids future? Off-load your guilt on your kids?
I only wish ye could see the Ireland I visit - a peaceful, prosperous, environmentally-sound, respected, educated, family orientated country. I only wish he could accept the famous lines from the Frank Sinatra song on NY -
“If you can make it there, you’ll make it any where, it’s up to you……..”
Material wealth can not buy the real gifts we hope to give our future generations.
America having failed to renew her Irish connection will ultimately mourn the changing face of her society.
I have been reading through here. I don't know how this is going to be received, but, here goes.....
My great-grandfather was born in Tourmakeady. After a brief stint in London, as a young man he found his way to New York City c. 1920. He had much less than some of the posters here have. He didn't have much to get by on: 8th grade education, not many marketable skills (even by the day's standards,) and only had his sisters to rely on for company.
Time passed for him. He met a girl from roughly the next town over in Ireland. They married, raised many children, and used their house in Brooklyn to help others adjust to America: they would board folks off the boat until they found a place to live. In the meantime, he worked the docks in Brooklyn and did the work most of the high and mighty "Americans" wouldn't touch with a barge pole. (During the Depression things were particularly bad: they lost a baby to genetic defect and hospital bills were terrible.)
Many years later, I look at his wedding photo, and then I look around: the sacrifices he and his wife made all those years ago paid off hugely. His daughter and her husband (may he rest in peace) have been helping folks in Woodside for decades. More than half of his grandchildren went to university: one is a professor at McGill in Canada. Another is a lawyer. His great-grandchildren include an engineer, a stockbroker, and my sister is a doctor-to-be. I am about to graduate with a degree in computer animation. All of this wouldn't have been possible without him: if he had never left or dared for something more I would not have been born, nor would an entire clan of people exist.
"So what does this have to do with the present discussion?"-More than you realize. Pop got here by jumping ship to Canada & then sailing down the Hudson: today that would get him INS all over his tail. He worked his @#$ off helping the US Navy at the Yards for his part in the war effort: today that would land him in jail as his contracts wouldn't be legit. He had a license until he was too old to see (not possible now) and his emigration helped others coming after him (not encouraged now.) He even helped his son in law (another Mayo man) get started in business-today he might not have the money! To say that I am disgusted is an understatement-my Pop EARNED the right to be here as much as I have the right to exist, which is more than I can say about some fat cats in Congress or especially King George.
My best advice is HOLD THE LINE. DO NOT BREAK. IF YOU TRULY WANT TO STAY HERE, NEVER BREAK OR THE BAD GUYS WIN. Immigration reform is needed badly here and the only folks who have a hope of changing it are immigrants, not necessarily voters: the work illegal immigrants generate is worth billions of dollars. If that were to suddenly dry up and people went on strike it could cripple the infrastructure-deporting millions of people at once is damned near impossible and 50,000+ illegal Irish could be leaders easily of a movement. (look up Mother Jones if you don't believe me.) Learn more about the history of the Irish here: there is a lot more to it than a song by the Pogues or, at least what I have seen from kin overseas, a textbook spiel (greater obstacles have been faced and overcome.) Speak to American friends who will listen-they will help you. And yes, albeit blunderingly with green beer and bad versions of The Wild Rover, reach out to your local AOH, chock full of Irish Americans whose pockets are deep and connections big.
In the meantime, wait a little until after the next election. Don't put much stock in HIlary or McCain-neither seem keen on changing much (McCain is towing the old xenophobic party line and Hilary doesn't give a tinker's damn about immigrants except if they are Chinese snakeheads who can intimidate the downtrodden Chinatowners into "donations". ) Don't wait for the Irish govt. to do much: if the economy starts to buck like a mule again the priorities shall shift. HOLD THE LINE, AND DEMAND WHAT YOU WANT.
And to the lady before me: don't give up just yet. Money can't solve everything, you're right, but going two steps forward and three back doesn't help either. You want better opportunity and so does he. The fact that you are still hanging tough and hanging on should be a testament, not a tragedy: my Pop was damned near broke, had a wife who constantly argued with his sister, had no health insurance, three small kids, and a fourth one slowly dying because he couldn't keep food in his stomach. So what did he do?-He set up a still in his basement at the height of Prohibition for extra cash, managed to have two more children, took another job with the local church, and by the time he was very old (100) surrounded himself with all his numerous kin, toothlessly shaking his cane at the sky and taunting the [long dead] brother who stayed behind that he beat him.
Have faith. It will work out in time.
The irish deserve to be respected, they are good honest workers and should not be hounded out of America. American Politicians stand up and be counted, dont hide, come out and fight for the Irish as we have fought for ye.
Go to 'usagreencardlottery.org' and apply for a green card.
Per President George W. Bush
in answer to the person who says go usagreencardlottery.org well i have applied for the last 8 years and still have got nothing and also have paid my fees to be in for the next two years.do you buy many scratch cards or buy a lottery ticket well you have as good o chance be coming a million air as gettin a green card.but sure i will keep tyring.and also just want to say today in Washington Bertie Ahern did us all proud in his speech to day so this is one o them days that i am so proud to Irish in Amercia.our time will come...
I am an E M S paramedic. Been here 37 years. American wife and six American born childre. I am still fighting The D.H.S.I.N.S because I lost my origanal I94 back in 1974
The I.N.S told me all those hand written records were stored at The World Trade Center. We know what happened there. I wqs there for thirty days and nights, as a Medic.Still... They are asking me to produce this document, or face potential deportation.
Theat the thanks ,we Irish get for helping to save american lives for thirty four years. Your Congressman, or Senator will do nothing for you ,but lip service.
To colonialboy,
You said you lost your I-94 in 1974 and that the paper record of this was kept in the WTC.
I work assisting immigrants and I know how important it is for them to safeguard their I-94 cards.
While your situation is particularly tragic, with what happened at the WTC and your work as a first responder, it still begs the question: Why did it take so long for you to pursue a replacement documents that could prove your legal status?
reply to anonymous. You misunderstand. I have been trying to replace this document since it was lost.The D H S I N S have never gotten it right. Even with the Help of a Congressman , and Two Senators.
Assisting immigrants is a wonderful thing , but getting The I.N.S to see reason is another.
Colonialboy,
Are you saying that you've spent the last 34 years trying to get a replacement I-94, and still haven't gotten one?
If so, and if you are under threat of deportation because of this, you must go to the press as this would be one of the most egregious examples of ineptitude by the federal government. Negligence of this scale would almost certainly entitle you to civil damages if you ever were to pursue this in court, which, if they don't fix the situation soon, I think you should do.
So, just to clarify once more, you have been trying to get a replacement I-94 since you first lost it in 1974? And that the records of that were kept in the WTC? And because of 9/11, those documents are gone?
...AND you're an emergency responder in New York City, on duty on 9/11???
Reply to anonymous
Yes . Indeed , I have tried for over thirty four yrars. I have paid fee , after fee. Been sent the wrong applications. They sent an application for Naturalization three times. When I questioned this , they wrote Please enclose fee, or application will be denied.
I was told by them , my children would be taken from , put in the system , and myself deported.. Yes . I was at ground zero for thirty days and nights.I have been in E.M.S all my life. Ihave been told many times By The I N S they dont care."Ihave broken the law" By being honsest with them. I am illegal. Yes . An I.C.E agent from Newark , told me all those documents went down with The Towers.
I am now an emergency Responder in S/Carolina. My wife who was with me at 9/11, also a first responder, paramedic . Has never been the same , since that fateful day.She recently had a stroke. ALL BECAUSE OF THE D H S I N S.Yes . I made a mistake by loosing the I94, I will accept that. However do i , and my family deserve to be persecuted?
I have paid , taxes, s/s .never hid, and was constantly in contact with The I.N.S. I have never comitted any kind of crime. The D.H.S.I.N.S is the most unfeeling,inept, branch of Govt. I was interviewed by them a year ago. A Russian interviewer to boot. She wouldnt even let my wife or I speak. She just admitted , that I would never find The I94, and after all. I was just one more Irish drunk to deport.I would love to pursue this in court. Unfortunately, Lawyers cost a lot and do very little.
I have spent , thousands already,still the same outcome. Without the non existant I94 . I dont belong here. No one ever asks my status, when I treat them for a heart attack, stroke, or motor accident, I am well thought of then and when I treat a child, I am their hers. Dont get me wrong.. I love my work and the American people. I continue to do it, but with deportation over my head, having to leave my sick wife and family, Just is begining to make me wonder if I have not wasted my life.
I went to The Irish Voice Newspaper, last year. They did a huge article on my situation. That was it , nothing happened.I gues . I may have to take my skill somewhere else. America does not want them. ' unless, they are near death: Sad world.
Well, first off, going to the Irish Voice is useless. You're just preaching to the choir with them. You need to get the attention of a larger outlet, and one that is read by Americans.
I strongly suggest you try to get a writer from the New York Times to at least take an interest in the story. Again, if everything that you have said is true, and that you can prove you have spent 34 years trying to get a new I-94, somebody will listen. Another outlet I'd look into is the Boston Globe, specifically the writer Kevin Cullen. He has written extensively on the effect the recent anti-immigrant tensions have had on the Irish in America.
Hell, if the situation is this desperate, why not write letters to law firms that specialize in immigration law, especially those with Irish surnames. Simply writing off lawyers because of their "image" is stupid. Remember this old axiom: Everyone hates lawyers until they need one. You need one.
Another avenue you should pursue is through a Senator's office. Each one has at least a dozen staffers who do nothing but casework for constituents. The general rule of thumb is that you go to a Senator in your current state of residence. However, South Carolina's 2 (Graham and DeMint) aren't great bets. Therefore you should contact Senator Schumer and Clinton, and even try Senator Kennedy's office.
Again, if you're situation is as cruel as it sounds, someone in one of the places mentioned above will help you.
to anonymous.Unfortunately, for me . Every word I have said is true. I have taken your advice and contacted The Boston Globe.I am at present composing a letter to Sen Schumer. I will inform you of the outcome. I tried Kennedy , and clinton in the past. Got a boiler plate letter, they only represent people in their districts. Yes . My situation is every bit as cruel as it sounds. All because of a mistake on my part when I was a young man.
I love America and its people very much, or I would not be running dangerous streets as a paramedic.However . When It comes to The D.H.S.I.N.S. Ifeel as if I am dealing with The Nazis. Thank you for your time and advice
Can anybody answer my question in relation to the latest press release by the TSA regarding ID's accepted for air travel? I have just read the article in the Irish Voice "Passport Needed for Travel". If you entered the country legally but have overstayed, You lost your passport for whatever reason, Can you still travel with the new passport issued, even though there is no green slip attached, giving them the date that you entered?
By travel, I'm guessing you are referring to travel outside the US (like to Ireland)?
I doubt you would have any trouble leaving the US -- you may be given a hard time at the airport, but that's probably it, although these days you never know -- you would almost definitely have problems getting back into the US.
Choose your travel plans wisely, for any jaunt outside the USA may end up being a 1 way trip.
Sorry, I should have clarified this. I mean domestic travelling within the US.
From reading quite a few articles on the subject of the undocumented. It has been made clear that there is a determination to eliminate the employment of illegal immigrants so that they can employ “hard-working Americans who need the jobs”. I have to laugh at this opinion because I find it very hard to believe that you would find Americans to actually do the jobs that most illegal immigrants do. Landscapers, Nannies, Building & Farm Laborers, fruit & vegetable pickers, busboys, cleaners, porters, waiters/waitresses….need I go on??? Why do you think the undocumented are being employed??? They are doing all those tedious but necessary jobs that the Americans wouldn’t entertain.
The fact that they are being paid a fraction of what legal citizens are paid, they’re working longer & unsociable hours doesn’t even register with the majority of Americans. Most of them are good honest workers trying to earn a decent living for themselves & their families yet they are treated like pariahs for doing so.
I would find it hard to believe that none of you have had work done by undocumented citizens because you just don’t want to or don’t have the time to do it yourself. Throwing the illegal’s out on the street would only lead to bigger problems including higher crime.
The undocumented do not want amnesty, they want the chance to create a life for themselves legally & are willing to work extremely hard in order to get it, but if there is no system in place that allows them to do it legally; what option do they have???
The cure for the problem of illegal immigration is to establish a realistic immigration system and to bring the unauthorized population out of the shadows through an earned legalization program. Turning the undocumented into pariahs is not in the nation’s best interest. Wake up people.
The real cure to the illegal immigration problem is not making illegal immigrants legal.
The real cure is the creation of strong, modernized economies in developing countries. Until the great inequities in the world are addressed there will ALWAYS be the pull of illegal immigration.
Why is it that even you aunts and uncles who are U.S citizens cannot claim you anymore was a time this was allowed even if they wernt citizens
It has become very clear. The American Govt does not want The Irish here anymore.Even though we stood alongside George Washington, and fought many wars for the country.It is not The American people, but Govt stupid policy.No one, and I do mean no one in Govt is in touch with reality.Why should they be. They have money, very comfortable, dont care about anyone but themselves.
You have read my story , a few blogs back. I even have a Nephew who is a Federal officer.The next time , I am called to some rich Politicians home, who is having a Heart attack. I should ask for his I.D and birth cert. We Irish are good enough to save their lives , but not good enough to stay in the country.It just makes me sick.
Any T.V.station that would allow Lou Dobbs to rant and rave, like he does, should be investigateded for being a subersive group. I am sure Lou can trace his roots back to The Mayflower or something. By todays standards , they were illegal to. The Irish people have a habit of not standing together. For Gods sake , stand up be counted. Get involved.Are you a human being with dignity? or a bit of trash, as many people are making us out to be.
We have a long honourable history. Without us , and other immigrant groups .America would not in any sense of the word be what it is today. The Irish Govt . Its going to let us hang.Just like it did the six northern counties . Dont depend on them.
Get involved , let go of the Fear of The U.S Govt. If they say we have no rights.. We have human rights.They wanted to have me file another I 102 form. The seventh one in 35 years. I just wrote yesterday, and told them what idiots they are.So. If I find myself in some other part of Europe soon.Oh well.
Ask yourself. Whatever kind of life you have in The U.S.Some bubble butt I.N.S.worker can take it all away .What kind of life do we really have? Is it really worth the worry? living in fear? I for one . If I am going down. I will go down swinging. My great grandfather , fought in the civil war, I was in Vietnam. Now they tell me . Military service is not proof of Legal entry.
If we dont stand up now. The American Govt , will play with us like a cat does a mouse.Oh just a comment to MOOSE HEAD.You have an opinion. Your name suits you.
You went to Vietnam and fought as an American soldier during the Vietnam War? And you didn't have to? Now I am convinced you are totally stupid. "Total Stupidity" is grounds for denial of entry.
Your name suits you too, "Colon"-ial boy
To yankee doodle , and moose head. You dont know the circumstances. Yet you judge me. At least I served what did you two pontiffs do? I s every sldier serving in Iraq now (who dosent have to 0 also stupid? You two are real Patriots.I suggest you both get a life, an if you have nothing intelligent to write or say Be quiet.
I served because I was told I would get citizenship through it.I dont know who are what you both are. Just dont ever disgrace The 5th special forces, with whom I served. When you do . You disgrace every soldier , legal or not who has fought for your freedom, and unfortunately your idiotic opinions. NO . I did not have to serve, but I am proud to have stood with many excellent men who gave their lives for fools like you. Colonialboy.
Please excuse my typos . I am so angry. I suppose that makes me even more stupid ? I am still serving America, as a Paramedic treating idiots like you , after you crash your cars.I cannot even begin to think, That in The U.S.People like you exist.I pray neither of you are married. It would be very dangerous for you two to breed.I dont know if Yankee doodle and Moose head are Irish , American or what
Ont thing is sure . I sent your comments to a lot of Vietnam Vets. They are all of the opinion .You are fools with very sad lives.Any good decent person reading this blog who lets you away with those comments, is just trash like you. Although . I may have immigration problems. God Bless America, and all her Armed forces men and women
I agree with colonialboy. Those disgusting remarks , are uncalled for.Perhaps you think you are funny. Tell that to the familys of soldiers killed in Iraq
What's the matter? You got something against us illegal animals?
I have nothing at all against illegals. Have you read? I am classed as one myself. When you are a self proclaimed animal, that looks really bad for the rest of us.
moose head sounds like he or she is from The Shankill rd
America . Should welcome Colonialboy, and cut the Bull s..t.I am an American, our great country is going to hell, because of some stupid laws and people.
The Irish helped build our nation, whereas. Mexico fought against it.Something very wrong with this picture.Have you ever been to Gettysburg, or Fredricksburg, national cemetrys? Go there if you can , and Read the Irish Names , who paid the ultimate sacrifice. NOW THEY ARE NOT WELCOME??? Shame on America. By the way . Not that it means anyhting . I am of ENGLISH decent, and side with the Irish.
In the Civil War, the largest foreign-born contingent of Congressional Medal of Honor winners were Irish. The numbers are something like 1500 Irish our of 5,000 MoH recipients. Same with the MoH winners in the Indian Wars and the Sanish-American Wars - overwhelmingly large participation by the Irish-born.
(None, in the Mexican-American War, however, since that was before the Medal was established. Besdes, many Irish soldiers in the St Patricks battalion engaged in treasonous activities - which we shall overlook for now)
But in the 20th century, it's quite a different story. The last Irish-born American soldier to win the Medal of Honor was in World War One! There were none in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, nor Iraq.
So where are all these proud Irish soldiers whose names are inscribed at Gettysburg, Antitiem, and Fredricksburg. Well, they're all dead, but their blood runs through the veins of their children, like me, who treasure, safeguard, and protect the fruits of their sacrifice - from foreign lackeys like the clientele of this blog. Go take care of your own country before it's too late.
So. Where is the big problem , with us? my great grandfather, fought in The Amerian civil war.I am proud of that . I fought in Vietnam . I am proud of that. I am very proud to be Irish. I just feel I got screwed By The United States. I am in agreement with you Moose Head.
We have to get together (unite)with all of the others immigrants to make something happen likewise we must educate the american people on this issue. Let them know what how we contribute to this great country.
That's what I mean - if you contribute to a country that is not your own - in which you have no promise of acceptance - in which you pay taxes and never realize the benefit of those taxes - always risking the prospect of arrest and detention - you've got to be mental. But if you live in a country not your own - and be able to avoid paying taxes - be able to reap benefits subsidized by citizens - be able to enjoy activities not available in your own country (e.g. abortion, pornography, cheap gas (NOT) - be able to make money for your efforts - you've got to be shrewd and clever.
I do want to be educated so - please feel free.
My taxes are goning to The Govt for 37 yrs, and s/s I must be pretty dumb
The taxes go to parks, libraries, mass transit, national defense, etc - features that all benefit from, regardless of status, but to pay into s/s and not get a dime back - yeah that is dumb.
My problem is that I am a son of an Irish/American mother she has an American passport and all, and have no chance of any visa or greencard. But if any American's parents are Irish they can get an Irish passport! I have spent thousands of dollars on lawyers that said they bcould help me and after they have taken me for my money I am told we can go no further! Why is it so?????
TO Colonialboy
I am writing from Ireland, do you have a personal blog or is there a way to contact you regarding possible help with your personal situation?
Wow...I am impressed by the ammount of ignorance in this blog. First let me begin by saying the I am 100% Native American - Micmac tribe which is part of the First Nation. My lovely wife is 100% Irish - 2nd generation American. The immigration issue with the Irish has a long history that it is apparant few in this blog are aware of. Many of you site that Irish have always been persecuted and throw up the NINA slogan. Well, I dare any of you to show me in historical records of anyone using that slogan here in the United States. As a historian I have researched this issue of NINA in America and found that it does not excist beyond a handful of IRISH folk songs one imparticular that was popular in 1862. The slogan was created and used in England NOT America! Even in England the NINA was mainly used against female household servants. As a matter of fact most Irish when they came to America refused to assimilate into the American working class. Chosing to instead work as a collective group economically, socially, and politically. The Irish in the mid 1800s recognized that as a group they held a tremendous amount of power and utilized that power successfully throught the 19th and 20th century. It was until after WWII that you see a decline in Irish cohesiveness.
When any country passes immigration legislation, they are typically trying to preserve the status quo...the United States has a history of this since the 1700s. However, Irish immigration has never been a target for reduction.
It has just been announced that 20,000 1 year visas will be available for Irish Citizens to work in the US from next year & vice versa for US Citizens who want to work in Ireland. While this is good news for the most recently unemployed Irish construction workers & Irish Graduates who are finding it hard to find employment in the Irish dwindling economy, it is a major kick in the teeth for the undocumented Irish living in America. It seems they won't be given a chance to succeed. It's a pity something can't be worked out between 2 countries that have had an immense relationship for many years & continue to do so.
I am an Irish Citizen Born in Ireland and i was living and working in America for the past 5 years and had established a life for myself in America and all my friends are over their, But i was detained for over a month and deported last year i had never been arrested in my life before and the life i had in America was 10 times better than what I'm going through here in Ireland right now, every day It's getting worse and worse this economy has gone down the drain and i am getting laid off work in january so i am returning illegally to America in the spring of the new year! i really hope that something can be done for the undocumented Irish in America really soon! Our four fathers build the pentagon and the white house i bet they were even illegal, If i was given the chance to pay even $10,000 or more to have residency and apply for citizenship i would more than gladly pay it and my taxes and be living a normal life, I really hope that something can be done for us undocumented Irish really soon! Take care everyone and have a Merry Christmas!
If you don't mind me asking, "anonymous", why were you "detained"? Because usually one is detained for a violation of some sort - run a red light; drive w/o a license; get in a fight; get sued by someone; possess stolen property; get caught with drugs, etc. You must have raised the "red flag" somehow to draw attention to yourself.
I dont mind you asking at all. I simply was with my employer we were driving to a location to where the work was and there was a check point on the road and they were I.D everyone and i told them i had none on me and they asked was i from here i try to say yes but they said not with that accent so then they took me to a station and checked me out and then found out i had overstayed my visa and detained me for a month which was the worst experience of my life then deported me back to Ireland. I never had a U.S drivers license and i never drove in the U.S i didn't have to and never have even gotten into one fight in all my time while i was there i never cause any trouble of such! I get along well with Americans.
Bummer, dude!
One group that is in a similar situation to all of the undocumented Irish in the States are binational same-sex couples.
The U.S. government discriminates against gay and lesbian binational couples by not allowing them to sponsor their foreign-born life partners for immigration.
Because of this, they face the terrible choice of separating from the person they love or leaving the US. No citizen of any nation should have to choose between family and country.
Another ally in this battle is the organization Immigration Equality - roughly the same amount of binational couples are in Immigration limbo as are undocumented Irish - 40,000.
The ILIR are doing a very very bad job with being truthful to the irish people living in the U.S. They need to come out and tell the people that they make about as much difference in U.S policy as I did in electing our new president and I did'nt vote so zero.Stop giving false hope people that have been living here for several years having children etc need to put down proper roots now, not another 5,10,15 years. They have been lied to by everyone else so please not by you.Most people that have stayed all this time,would'nt have if 10 years ago they were told they would still be undocumented 10 years later. This needs to stop and stop now.. Prove me wrong and approve this comment..
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