Sarah French Tells Her Story
Sarah French first came to the United States to get an education, but soon found herself starting a life here with her family. She explains the hoops she had to go through to obtain her citizenship and lay the foundation for her life here.
Sarah French's Immigration Story
Read More Below
Article & Video
By Ariel Long
Amanda Rechkemmer
Gabriela Hardan
In 2008, Sarah French received her legal documentation to become a U.S. citizen after spending years completing the immigration process.
“This is freedom from everything else," French said, holding up her passport.
French came to the U.S. in 1990 from the island of Saint Kitts and Nevis. She was on a two-year visa that was near its expiration. She remained in the U.S. to continue her education and to establish a home for her family.
The process of legalization, she said, is vigorous.
“It’s painful in the sense that you want things to get done not just for yourself, but you want it to get done for your family, for the people around you and you’re not just willing to make your life better but you’re willing to make others’ lives better.”
Now 47, French is a full-time teacher in Punta Gorda, Florida, where she has raised her children. She encourages other immigrants to continue fighting for their legal status in the U.S.
“You have come this far, you know what the process is, you know what your goal is, keep fighting. This is your dream, so don’t give up.”
Photo Credit to Gabriela Hardan
