It’s often easy to overlook certain privileges, but community member, Pablo, will always be grateful for the privilege of US citizenship. Pablo came to community partner, Enlace Chicago, in 2023 to renew his lawful permanent resident card (LPR) and apply for citizenship. There, he met and worked with Beyond and Enlace attorney, AJ Johnson-Reyes. Pablo said, “I wanted to become a citizen so I could have liberty in this country.”

After a few months of preparation and patience, Pablo was officially a citizen of the United States! As he reflected on his case, he said, “I’m so grateful for Enlace, my attorney AJ, and the help I have received here. I didn’t know about this resource here in Little Village, but now that I know about it, I tell everyone!”

One of the first things Pablo did when he became an official citizen was exercise his right to vote. It’s something he’s wanted to do for years, so now he will not take it for granted. He said, “I just voted for the first time recently. As a citizen, I feel so free and secure. I’m happy I’m able to do these things now. I used to feel ashamed that I couldn’t vote.” After his case was closed, Pablo expressed that he wants to help spread the word so that Beyond and Enlace can continue to support other community members like him. We can only do that with your support, so please consider making a donation today.