Locals encourage people to chase the American Dream

From crackdowns, to border security and a proposed border wall, critics and supporters might say immigration is an ongoing issue in the United States.

With the debate on immigration up for discussion in Washington, some people also say the idea of becoming a U.S. citizen can seem like a daunting one. However, locals share their journey toward citizenship. Some local residents said the process is not as complex as many might stereotypically think. They said they encourage people to fight for their citizenship in order to pursue “the American Dream.” Moreover, Yuma resident, Carolina Rios has gone through the citizenship application process and said it’s helped open an endless amount of opportunities. “Becoming an American citizen for this great country means a lot,” Rios said. “I’m a part of this country, this is my home now.” Similar opportunities drove Jesus Landeros to also become a citizen. He said he knew from the moment he stepped onto American soil, that he would be calling it home. While the national debate on immigration remains in the spotlight, Yuma resident Frank Velez said becoming a legal citizen paid off for him in the long run. “It’s just peace of mind,” Velez said. “It could start as something very innocent but then get ugly. So if you have the opportunity, do it.”