Yesenia arrived in the U.S. from Mexico with her parents when she was 15 years old. That was over 20 years ago. Her father became a citizen in 1997 and after him the whole family followed suit, except for her. She had always wanted to take her citizenship test, but as a mother, working full-time and raising her kids, she had many responsibilities that acted as barriers. A few months ago, her family encouraged her to come to Hand in Hand and begin the process for citizenship. She is attending class on Monday nights and is working on submitting her application. Yesenia is a successful Re-Pack Supervisor at McDougall and Sons and has smart and beautiful children. She wants to become a citizen for many reasons, but one is to feel secure.

 

“I have a big family, and we are all together now. I need to make sure we stay together.”

 

She sees the many responsibilities and opportunities ahead and is very excited to finally get the chance to vote.