We the People’s Forum: How Can We Fix America’s Immigration System?

** This event is open to the media upon approval. Media contact: Ciaran O’Connor, ciaran@braverangels.org

Build a wall? Open borders? Something else? What would a fair and orderly immigration system look like in America?

We know the slogans. It’s a political hot-button issue. But what do immigrants — those voted for Trump and those who voted for Biden — themselves think about how we could make America’s immigration system work?

Join us for a fascinating We the People’s Forum with two immigrants and friends who have much in common — but also differing perspectives on immigration. During Discussion, anyone with direct experience on this issue may comment, and anyone may ask a question.

Alicia Matos was born in Venezuela, first came to America as a child with her family, and became a U.S. citizen at age 15. A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for the past 17 years, Alicia describes herself as “lucky to have grown up in a melting pot of cultures,” with her mother ensuring that their Venezuelan culture and language were preserved. Alicia graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Project and Supply Chain Management, recently purchased her first home, and works as a regional buyer for a steel recycling company. She would like to see America’s immigration system become “more accessible” to immigrants. She voted for Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election.

Neyju Rondon was born in Venezuela and immigrated to America in 2002 when she was 25 years old. A resident of the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, area, she became a U.S. citizen in 2019 and worked as a housecleaner for many years before starting her own cleaning business. She describes her story as an example of “the American Dream,” and believes that, “If you’re American, you have to be proud of the country we have.” She believes that America’s immigration system is “hard” but “fair,” adding that, “I’m not against the people who are walking from the border.” She voted for Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election.

About We the People’s Forum

In this Braver Angels forum, everyday Americans get time at the podium. We hear from people who are often spoken of, but rarely spoken with. We tell our stories and share our perspectives on the issues of the day. We hear from people of all races, classes, places, and politics. Together, we’re exploring how We the People can build a more perfect union in a divided America.

This workshop is a free event brought to you by Braver Angels as part of our mission to depolarize America. Braver Angels is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. We invite you to consider a gift to Braver Angels; all donations are tax deductible.  Your support will allow us to offer more workshops and debates with the ultimate goal of uniting America. To donate, click here.