Summary
Highlights
Enrique, a 22-year-old artist, recounts his experience as an undocumented American. Brought to the US from Mexico at age six, he grew up in New Hampshire and later moved to New York. He describes the difficulties of pursuing higher education without financial aid due to his undocumented status, contrasting it with the support others receive.
Enrique shares a pivotal family crisis at age 15 when his parents' marriage fell apart. With his father unsupportive, he had to work to help his family, highlighting the additional burden faced by undocumented individuals who cannot access government assistance programs like food stamps.
Enrique discusses his constant fear of police and deportation due to his undocumented status. He explains Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) as a crucial, but temporary, relief that would allow him to work in his desired field of architecture, as it prevents deportation and authorizes employment, though it is not a path to citizenship.
Enrique recounts a subway incident where he was assaulted and subsequently charged with reckless endangerment. This charge jeopardizes his eligibility for Deferred Action, leading to a period of intense legal uncertainty as he awaits a court decision.
Enrique expresses the deep frustration and feeling of being 'tied up' by his undocumented status. He feels his years of effort to assimilate are invalidated by the lack of legal recognition, fearing a future where his dreams remain unfulfilled due to these limitations.
Enrique explains that his family left Mexico when he was six due to his father's debt. He vividly recalls the challenging border crossing, particularly the skepticism of a woman who doubted he and his sister would survive the journey. He befriended the 'coyote' (smuggler) and had to hide during the day.
Enrique reveals how art became his outlet during difficult times. He founded 'Dreamers Count,' an activist group where undocumented individuals share their stories anonymously behind painted masks. His ultimate goal is to break free from the shadows, show his face, and convey that undocumented youth are no different from their American peers.
Enrique receives good news as the court dismisses the charges against him. This outcome allows him to finally apply for Deferred Action and move forward with his life. He expresses no resentment towards his parents for their decision to come to the US, recognizing the opportunities available.
Enrique participates in 'National Coming Out of the Shadows Day,' selling his artwork and educating people about the DREAM Act. He embraces his identity as an undocumented artist, using his art sales to fund his return to school to pursue his architectural dreams.
Enrique explains his painting of the American flag without stars on his face. He sees the flag as a symbol of freedom and equality, values he cherishes, but the missing stars represent his undocumented status—feeling American but not legally recognized as one.