The Journey to Citizenship: Voting for Family and Future

Nicole Solis-Sison first stepped on American soil at the age of seven. Her family fled the Philippines, seeking asylum in the U.S. They landed in Los Angeles with the hope of returning once conditions improved back home. That hope was short-lived. The Philippine government pursued them internationally, demanding their return.

When an immigration agent from the INS appeared at their home, deportation seemed inevitable. However, the agent provided a different option. They suggested filing for asylum on U.S. soil. This advice gave her family a chance to stay legally. After decades of navigating the system, Solis-Sison became a U.S. citizen. Now, at 34, she is voting in New York City for the first time. Preparing for this event, she created a voter guide and diary.

Like many young voters, Solis-Sison faces questions about home ownership, student loans, and family planning. Her immigrant experience shapes her vote, giving her a sense of responsibility towards others in similar situations. “I’ve only gotten out of it with a sliver of hope,” she reflected, emphasizing her desire to protect those affected by the immigration system.

Juan Escalante, originally from Venezuela, grew up in south Florida. For many years, he was unaware of his undocumented status. This changed during his junior year in high school when legal mishandling by a lawyer left his family without valid applications. Under the DACA program, his status improved, allowing him to graduate college. In 2025, at 37, Escalante voted in his first election.

Escalante felt mixed emotions when he received his first ballot in California. The complexity of the ballot did not deter him. He meticulously researched each proposition and candidate. For him, it was the culmination of years of effort, reflecting his commitment to family and community values.

Deisy España from Wisconsin carries the weight of her family’s immigrant past. With her parents originating from Mexico and initially undocumented, she witnessed their fear during routine encounters, such as traffic stops. Her mother now holds a green card, but tensions remain high due to heightened ICE activity.

Immigration policy guides España’s political actions. Despite the stakes, she urges others to vote beyond personal interests. “I’m voting for my parents,” she asserts, emphasizing the collective responsibility young voters with immigrant ties feel.

Leydi Gonzalez from Texas shares similar concerns. Her perspective is colored by her family’s journey from El Salvador. Sponsoring her parents for legal status was her priority upon turning 21. Although her parents are now authorized to stay, she remains vigilant in light of recent local events, such as a fatal ICE encounter.

Gonzalez sees potential change in the upcoming election, particularly in Texas’s Senate race. Her voting goes beyond self-interest. “It definitely feels like I’m voting for my family,” she says, recognizing the broader impact of her vote.