by Nomad
Joris Debeij's documentary- part of a series called "I Am Los Angeles," focuses on the life of a former immigrant turned citizen. Her story may seem ordinary. That's precisely the point. She has the same dreams and goals as any other American.
As a teenager, Alma Velasco had dreams of finishing school and getting a degree in El Salvador. But her dreams were shattered by the dangerous conditions created by the El Salvadorian civil war which first broke out in 1979, and lasted for almost 13 years. Alma's mother lived in fear for the safety her children, and although it meant she may never see her daughter again, she made the difficult decision to send Alma to cross the border into the United States.At the age of 16, Alma managed to survive the exhausting and dangerous trip across the border to join her uncle in California. That's right. She came to this country as an undocumented immigrant.
In Los Angeles, Ms. Velasco began a new and challenging life. Continuing her education was out of the question. Thanks to an amnesty program, she is now legally a resident of the United States.
As a single mother of two girls, Alma begins working at the American Apparel factory at 6:15 am sharp. Here her job pays her fairly and enables her to make an honest living for her family.She no longer dreams of getting a degree. Those goals have now transferred to her daughters, Ashley and Katherine.
She lives an honest life, within her means, and works hard as a basis to grow opportunities for her family. I can't think of a better measure for success as a parent, or in life, and people like Alma have been what makes this country great for generations.Ms.Velasco is, in her small unpretentious way, making America great again. Yet, Mr. Trump would like you to believe that Alma, and millions like her, are the enemy.
