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4/1/04
Robert Diaz
Fort Myers, FL
I have to say that I've been totally moved by this program. I've been part
of family having to deal with the immigration issue. It's a long process.
My dad left my country over 20 years ago and we are still dealing with it.
I was identified with every second of the series.
Congratulations on your image of the immigrant community of the USA.
Thanks for your special attention to the details. This great documentary
makes a different reality show!
Roberto J Diaz
Immigrant
4/1/04
jill
such a powerful show. i had so many emotions going through me: from joy to
sadness. as an immigrant it is so hard but with perseverance it tends to
pay off.
4/1/04
I too was dismayed when the young Palestinian-American man said that "the
U.S. is the most racist country in the world." I hope he doesn't believe
this, and that he was frustrated with the visa denial. But it did seem
that he was just repeating the words of some would-be racial demagogue
college professor he might have had.
The U.S. is far from being the "most racist country in the world" (how
one would determine such a title I have no idea). Based on how successful
its immigrants become in their socio-economic status and acceptance by
native-born citizens, it may be the LEAST such country in the world.
The U.S. gives its immigrants more opportunity for social advancement
than any other first-world nation. Canada has many of our social
strengths with its elastic national identity, but it lacks the robust
economy that has made some immigrants to America millionaires and many
others middle-class.
Perhaps the young man would see European countries as more tolerant than
the U.S., but if he truly
believes that he needs to visit Europe and open his eyes. Immigrants to
Europe, particularly Arabs, are locked into a low socio-economic status
with little to no chance of assimilation in the larger populace or
economic advancement. Three generations in, they are in the same
situation they were when dad or grandpa came over in the 60s or 70s. The
Iranian family that went to Paris in 1979 is probably no more rich or
French than it was 25 years ago. The Iranian family that went to Los
Angeles will have a much higher degree of assimilation with the general
population and may well make its home in Beverly Hills. (The population
of which 30% Persian, at last count).
Regardless of this, the young man should think about the consequences of
what he says.
Such misdirected accusations do little to further real human connection
between people, the type that are absolutely necessary if these new people
to our shores are truly to become Americans.
4/1/04
Jesse King
Absolutely incredible, it was intriguing to see how the American Lifestyle
was not what these people expected. Even though America is a great place
to live, it is not the heaven other countries make it out to be. Just like
other countries arent what our media displays to us.
There is no one place to provide complete happiness, and it is good to
come to a realization of what our country does and doesnt provide.
4/1/04
Bea Wade
San Diego, ca
I too, accidently started watching the series last night and became glued
to the television. In reading the comments here, I gather that quite a
number of us were deeply affected by the program and the new immigrants
struggles in their adopted land. That's why I was struck by the
ethnocentric attitude of Mr. Sun of Philadelphia. Although he makes some
valid points, I must take issue with the fact that he believes everyone
should stay in their own countries and fix their own problems. I believe
that people would like to stay in their homelands but feel that their
countries can't feed them and thus, they have no other viable option but
SURVIVAL. That survival instinct brings people here. These immigrants
will do anything to help their families, much like our ancestors did to
bring us to the U.S. I believe that Mr. Sun must be a descendant of an
immigrant family. Were his ancestors alive, would he pose his assumptions
to members of his family and tell them, "you're being selfish, go back to
your country and fix your problems". Unless Mr. Sun is Native American, he doesn't have the right to tell anyone, "hey, I was here first".
4/1/04
It's heartbreaking to see what Shell Oil has done to the Ogoni people, to
their rivers, their land, their culture, and to see the failure of the
Nigerian government to protect them.
Why don't we expect governemtns around the world to protect their people
from such companies? Instead, tonight I watch an evening news show about
the flow of oil and the high prive of oil at the moment. The program took
the point of view that oil should flow freely and didn't ask the price of
the flow on people like the Ogoni. We don't seem to connect the dots
well. The media needs to do a better job.
4/1/04
Youngsville, Louisiana
I cry and I cry with these people who leave their loved ones. I cry for
the ones they leave behind. I cry with the ones who come and are not
happy. I think some think we all are happy all the time and don't have to
work hard. They remind me what is really important, family, not material
things. My father picked cotton on a sharecropper farm. He & my mother
worked for me to go to college. I worked & my husband worked for my
children to go to a good school. It has taken generations. I wonder if
people understand it can take generations.
4/1/04
Teresa Ann Page
Bowling Green, Ky
I love this show. It makes me laugh, it makes me cry. It makes me
proud to be an American, and it makes me want to be a better American. It
is my dream now to one day sponser a family.
4/1/04
ernesto diaz
los angeles
Very interested program,I felt the pain and difficulties the mexican
family had to go thru to be able to to be together, in this country. also
the diffrent ways people can become legal in this country.
how easy for some & how fifficult for others specially for latinos.
4/1/04
julie
Los Angeles,CA
Congratulations to the filmmakers and to ITVS for facilitating one of the best documentaries I've ever seen. It is a true art for a filmmaker to be able to insert her/himself into the lives of these people and become as much a part of the wallpaper as possible so we can see what these diverse families at their most hearbreakingly human moments. And thank you to the subjects of the film: you trusted the filmmakers and allowed the camera to intrude upon your lives - you have given us all a lesson in the human experience, and your generosity is a gift to all of us. May we all become better Americans because of you.
3/31/04
Nsa Lawal
California
I learned about this program from my Anthropology Professor. I truly do
appreciate that I have the opportunity to follow the program. I want to
use this opportunity to thank the producers of the program for their
efforts to bring reality and fact like this to us in a very simple way. I
also want to plead with those who might be offended by some of the words
from the immigrants,this is part and time of culture shock to them. I do
not think that they meant any harm. They are being sincere without
pretents. In almost all cases, they all have one reason or the other that
have affected their perception and reasoning. As time goes by, and they
gain more understanding of the American culture, they would become more or
less Americans. If not all of us, our grandparents or great great
grandparents were once like that. LeoSun, you sounded angry in your
feedback. I want you to relax back and give them a chance to be just as
real as possible, for that is the only way that you can learn the true
meaning of life.
Thank you.
3/31/04
Bronx, NY
Last night's documentary was one of the best ones I've seen. Not only
because it was excellent, but because as a new american, I was able to
relate to the experiences of the families that were part of the
documentary.
I came to the US at the age of 15, and while I meet a lot of people who
were kind and respectful, there were some who were mean and made my
adjustment to a new culture language and country difficult.
I am pleased to say that 13 years later, I am happy for the sacrifices
my dad made to bring his 6 children and his wife to the US. I am glad
that I have had the opportunity to live in a country were in many cases
and instances, I am not judged by the color of my skin or my gender.
There has been moments were being black and hispanic has coused me to work
just a little bit harder than some, but it has also enable me to excel at
almost everything I do.
3/31/04
gio
montreal canada
As a documentary/television editor, I was captivated by the superb editing/story editing and directing of this series. To those who see it as racist or anti-American, it those people who fuel bitterness among people in society. Protectionist attitudes do nothing but isolate us even furthur, not to mention, create this wretched contemporary climate of political corectness. Have we become so myopic that we can no longer accept reality and honesty? These people are telling thier story from their own eyes - without trying to be politically correct. This is truth - this is the human condition. Bravo.
Isreal and Ngozi seem like 2 resiliant, strong human beings - They seemed to be filled with love and respect for people and eachoter. We North Americans are so damn self-righteous - maybe it is time we ask ourselves if maybe, just maybe, we haven't something to learn from such courageous human beings -they have lived through so much more than the we, the average North American will ever know.
3/31/04
Michele Weaverq
Atlanta, Georgia
I have never in my life been so captivated by a television program. For a
girl who doesn't watch much television or stay up past 10 o'clock, this
series has had me mesmerized two nights in a row well past my bedtime. I
am a mother of four young children who are living in a "I want" society.
How incredibly heartwarming to watch these families struggle to live the
"American Dream"....only to miss the comforts of their own homeland,
culture, families and friends. It is a true testimony that money and
things do not buy happiness. I have learned so much and intend to
continue watching the series. My prayer is that the lessons learned will
be passed on to my children.
3/31/04
I. Dendeni
Columbus, Ohio
I was moved by many scenes:
-The palestinian driver who was returning the taxi fare to everyone when
he could not get them past the road blocks.
-Israel shouting from the bus "The Ogonis are best people of the world"
as he is leaving to the US
-The palestinian mother cursing all polititions from both sides of the
conflict for everyones miserries. Maybe they can learn from the
"un-educated"
-The wife of Pedro Flores or his daughter (not sure!) hugging him in
tears and begging him not to leave them again.
-And many more...
Maybe now, those who thought that immigrants were sub-humains or of
lesser cultures, can look at this and never look at immigrant the same way
again.
Thank you for documenting superb humain values to history.
3/31/04
Mary
Santa Clara, CA
It is always unfortunate some people do no understand the difficulties
which immigrants go through because they did not have to experience it.
We, immigrants, are the blessed ones. We be the power and cultivator of
future America! With our determination against struggles, our strength
agains descrimination, New America strives much more to understanding and
equality beyond our immagination through generations. Let's cultivate and
nourish this American soil which is forgetting where all we come from.
3/31/04
EDWARD APPIAH
BRONX, NEW YORK
I think this series is the best program on television. I am the child of
Ghanian parants who immigrated to the States in the late 70's. The show
just highlights how great this country is and what people are willing to
do to get here. I was especially touched by the Mexican family and the
ordeal they were going thru. This is reality television!!!
3/31/04
Brigitte Maconald
Los Angeles, California
Thanks PBS for airing and funding such a complex, thoughtful and amazing
series. I've sat transfixed for the past few nights. I end of talking
about the show the next day. Though many of the people come from
experiences and cultures that are so different from mine I feel such a
connection to each and everyone of the people in the series and can really
identify with some of the heartaches and joys. Fanstatic job!
3/31/04
Delia Agbozo
Greensboro, NC
As an immigrant, I found the series very informative and thought
provoking. Thanks for such a good program.
3/31/04
Vanessa A
Ithaca,NY
It may seem that migrant workers take the jobs that natives won't do but
this is only the case because natives would not do those jobs under those
conditions and wages. Wages and working conditions are kept low so
Americans won't take them and then the migrants that do, get exploited.
It's preposterous to say that natives refuse to work on farms; they refuse
to work on farms under the current condition.
3/31/04
Anita George
Troy, Michigan
I have never been this absorbed by a TV program before. I chanced upon
part 2 of 'The New Americans' last night and I'm looking forward to the
next segment. I came here from India 16 years ago as a student. At that
time I didn't know a soul in this country. It has been a wonderful
learning and sharing experience.
I was touched by the story of the Mexican Gentleman...being away from
loved ones...the wait at the consulate for the visas...the simplicity of
his life. I feel very fortunate having experienced two vastly different
worlds. Thanks PBS for this REALITY check. It has opened a flood of
memories for me.
3/31/04
Bob Herz
What a fantastic job. Everyone that was part of this project can be proud
of the product they put out. This is what "Great Television " is all
about. Bravo.
3/31/04
robert keitany
san diego, ca
wonderful program!!!!
3/31/04
Rossy Rodriguez
Bronx, NY
I would like to know whene are the shows going to be repeated because i
have missed parts 1 and 2. Just to give a little feedback on the show, i
think it's the most surreal, magnetic, captivating experience in TV,
Everyone involved in this project should be proud of the work they
contribute to the series. It has it's sad times, happy times, all-through
EDUCATIONAL, and absolutely breath-taking.
Peace and Love,
Dominican-born
RRodriguez
3/31/04
KC
I am looking at this documentary from a viewpoint that is a little
different. I am a 12th-generation American who emigrated to Australia
alone as a young woman. (I am back now, contrary to my intentions, for
family reasons, not because I didn't love Australia - I did.)
My experience was much easier than that of the people shown in The New
Americans. The country I went to was an English-speaking one, so I had few
language problems - though in my first week I discovered that I could not
understand people who spoke "Broad Australian" well enough to find out the
price of a doughnut! I had landed a well-paying job there before I went.
Still, the first year was rough in some ways. For example, it was a great
shock to me to discover that I was expected to live in a hostel as a
single government employee; apartments were reserved for married couples.
Then, I had come from Los Angeles and had to live in a town of some 300
people - that was a shock too (the city I had intended to live in was
wiped out by a cyclone shortly before I went).
It's the difference in culture that really gets you even if you are one
of the lucky immigrants that are doing OK financially - you find that what
you think is normal is not in this new place; you misunderstand many
situations because you don't know the culture and people may become angry
with you because you did not do what they expected. Always, there are
certain cultural differences that you are certain are wrong for cultural
or religious reasons(can or should an American force himself to eat dog in
China, or a Hindu to eat beef in America?), or that you can see are
perhaps permissible alternate ways but can't make yourself follow because
your own culture's way is important to you. (Think about how many of your
American ways you would be willing to give up in another country.)
It is hurtful to hear people in your new country put down the country you
came from - it may be worse to find that they never heard of your country.
You may be lonely if you are not in a place with many other immigrants, since the natives may just go on with their lives
and ignore you, not wanting to be bothered with people who are different.
No one can just jettison his or her culture and adopt all of a new
culture. Americans who do not realize this, who do not understand that it
is psychologically necessary to hang on to at least some of your own
culture, have never been faced with the situation. I would venture to say
that few people who have not been immigrants can possibly understand what
it is like to be one. That is why this documentary is so important.
Most Americans know so little about other countries. Anyone who thinks
his country is "the best" without having lived anywhere else is speaking
from ignorance. Every country has some things about it which are better
than those of all other countries; several countries have a higher
standard of living than the US.
As for staying home, some countries are so poor, and/or the dictatorship
so bad, that the only way to survive is to leave. Changing your birth country is often not possible.
Finally, have a little understanding when you hear immigrants criticizing
the US. First, everyone has a right to do this; it's called free speech.
You might even learn something from the criticism. Second, I can remember
saying awful things about Australia - some of them publicly - in my first
years there, when I was still confused and learning about my new country,
and was upset about something. This is human! Everyone does it! Get over
it!
3/31/04
Yvonne Pigford
Denver, CO
This program has captivated me each evening. As an american I take so much
very granted. I'm amazed what the new americans must endure just to have
the freedom that we often just complain about. I'm looking forward to
viewing the program in it's entiriety and I'm rooting for each family
member for I guess a happy ending.
3/31/04
Courtney B
Orinda, CA
Since watching this I thank God that I'm American and don't have to go
through the hardship that these people have gone through. My favorite
stories are of Israel from Nigeria and the 2 baseball players form the
Dominican Republic. There story is so vibrant, etc.. MUST SEE *****
3/31/04
Lara Sweeney
NY, NY
An excellent documentary. Bravo, film makers! Along with millions of
viewers, I too am entranced by their difficult and beautiful stories. I
am especially in awe of the spirituality present within each family. This
spirituality manifests itself in the patience and respect displayed by
each immigrant. I realize that perhaps the "old" Americans can learn from
these courageous souls.
3/31/04
Tiffany Williams
Raleigh, NC
I want to thank you PBS for this broadcast. I have been dating a gentlemen
from Nigeria/Lagos and I have a better understanding of the culture and
appreciate it so much more. I was in tears thinking about how fortunate we
are. I want to somehow just get involved and do something. My boyfriend
misses home and wants me to go one day. This show gave me a better insight
on how it will be when I go visit and learn my roots. Thanks so much.
3/31/04
CARLA SIMPSON REID
Winston-Salem,NC
I would love to applaud this series!! I am a married,working mother of
four and my eight year old did not move from in front of the TV!! I let
her stay up past her bedtime because it was such a learning experience for
her. The subtitles were easy for her to read and she thought it was so
interesting. I myself have many nationalities in my family(Dominican,
African-American, West African) and this was great for her to see!!
Thanks!!
3/31/04
Jo-Ann
Calgary, Alberta CANADA
I thoroughly enjoyed this series. Excellent programming. I note however,
blantant racism, rude behavior and humiliation directed towards the "New
Americans". As an example, the way the Nigerian refugees were treated at
the office for the "Link" programme and introduction to the USA. And as
well at the hotel kitchen where the supervisor made all the workers get on
their hands and knees to see a dirty floor. Also the Dominican baseball
players - where "American" prospect players get substantially more in
money. "Talk English" was very rude. Also, the comments about the
unlikelyhood of them staying because of their eating habits. These things
really made me uncomfortable. We are all humans in the world together. I
am not naive to say we don't experience racism in Canada, but after
reading other comments, I did not read anything about this topic. This is
a very emotional series, and I am thankful I was able to watch it. I
truly appreciate what I have, after watching stories such as this. Thank
you.
3/31/04
La Porte, Texas
One of the best series since "The Farmers Wife" aired several years ago.
Absolutely thought provoking and life changing. Since my husband and I
started watching this series, his predjudiced attitudes about "foreigners
and wetbacks" has changed. We see on the human level the struggles all
these families are surviving. We have taken our wonderful United States
for granted, but now I feel a deeper appreciation for the country I was
born in.
3/31/04
My wife and I really enjoyed the show Tues night. It was really
enlightening to see what people actually go through in this country as
immigrants. We plan on watching the show again tonite.
3/31/04
K. Q.
Oak Park, IL
This series is powerful and moving. I worked as a school social worker
for many years in a community that is experiencing explosive growth due to
Mexican immigrants. I heard often about the stuggles that families face
coming to this country...so I'm glad that viewers will have the
opportunity to think about all the difficulties that immigrants face and
how tied they still are to their old countries. Thank you for sharing the
stories of these people with us. My own grandparents were immigrants to
this country in the early 1900's. Hopefully your series will make many
American think about the issues.
3/31/04
Mandeville, Louisiana
Such an important,educational, interesting, and informative series.
Please re-run this series several more times and publicize it as much as
possible. I wish every American citizen could see it - the sensitivity
with which it is presented is just so commendable. Congratulations to all
involved.
3/31/04
Marisol Martinez
Franklin Park, IL
What a great job in depicting the struggles of the families in the "New
Immigrants" Series . . . , not only in their homelands, but also their
struggles as they create their new lives in the US.
My heart goes out to all of them.
Best of luck,
Marisol Martinez
3/31/04
Thank you very much PBS for all your shows and programs. I don't get to
watch it as often as I should.
I'm so glad I happened to catch "The New Americans". It is unbelievably
moving and uplifting. I'm glad there's an America for all of us on the
planet. As a foreign student from Singapore who became a citizen, I can
relate to many of the events, stories, and experiences of those featured
on the show.
I am particularly touched by the Mexican man and his family. I used to
live in El Paso, Texas, and ventured into Juarez many times.
Is there a way for me to give a little money to the family? Can I write
to them personally? Thank you again for your wonderful programming.
3/31/04
Elena Smith
Hoopeston, Illinois
i was watching pbs last night with my husband and my three year old son.
i sat on my couch with tears streaming down my face. one story truly
touched home for me. it was the mexican father trying to get his family
to the united states.
i am a mexican american. my mother was born in mexico and my father was
born in texas. i understand and know the struggle this father is going
through. my grandfather sold everything he had to be able to get his
family across the border. my parents struggled as migrants to give their
family a home. we have since then settled in illinois for 12 years and i
am so grateful for what my grandparents and my parents gave up so that i
could have what i have today.
i will never forget my family's struggle and i am glad pbs is showing our
nation and the people of the continuing struggles of other immigrants.
for this country belongs to all. for we are all immigrants of this great
country.
thank you, elena
3/31/04
patrick damron
bluefield va
the best, most informative,thought changing program i have watch in
years.two thumbs up
3/31/04
Kelly W.
Defiance, Ohio
What a truly wonderful show! Too bad more "Reality" TV shows were not more
like this one. I have learned so much by just watching the first 2
episodes. It has made me think about my own beliefs towards immigrants and
really makes me feel like I wish that I could do more to help in thier
struggle. This would be a great program to show school students. I have
cried and laughed through the episodes! It has made me go away from the
program still thinking about the people. I can't wait to see how it all
ends! Thanks for airing such a great program.
3/31/04
Sue
I loved your show on the New Americans last night. I think I missed part
1, will you be airing it again? My father was from Guanajuato, Mexico. I
cried when the dad was leaving and the family did not want him to leave.
It is so real! I remember those days when my dad would visit his
homeland, but had to leave to come back to work in a dirty foundry to
support his nine kids. I am a Special Education teacher working on my
Master's in Bilingual/EsL. If my dad had not made that sacrifice, I
would not have the opportunities I have in this country. Is there anyway
to talk to Pedro and his family?
3/31/04
Selva
Nashville, TN
I'm a senior in high school and I wish my fellow students were more
exposed to these types of programs that protray reality. Each person's
story brought me to tears.
But I have something to say about it. Its ok for immigrants to seek
happiness in the US. But they must not fall for the assimilation that is
the downfall of their heritage. Embrace your culture and traditions.
Question your government and "justice." Diversity is what makes this
country so culturally rich. Don't forget your past and always think about
the future.
The happiness these immigrants search for is not fulfilled in a
materialistic manner. They seek family unity, peace, justice in their
country. They are not happy about leaving behind they're country and
comming to a prejudicial society that will challenge their every believe.
No...they come here because they are forced to do so. They are only trying
to survive. Which is what live is really about.
I invite people to analyze the situation and open their eyes to the
realities of the
world. For example; The Congo (now Zaire) is the richest country in Africa
in the way that it has the best resources, like diamonds and other mines,
yet the Congolese live in miserable poberty. And who benefits the most
from these resources? The US. Oh yes....America the Beautiful? People...
let's not live in ignorace.
3/31/04
Teena Ellison
Everett WA
Thank you for sharing the stories. I live here but come from Canada so I
do not suffer the way others do. I do however have the privledge of
working with Refugee and Immigrant families and my life is richer for it.
There are good and bad in every community. I feel for those who are
homesick. My home is close just a few hours away, yet it can feel so out
of reach. What is must feel like to those who cannot return to their
homeland, what it feels like to be lost in the language, to not be
understood, to start all over. I think it is important to hold onto
traditions, while embracing in a respectful way the traditions of our new
home. Education is important. If we all had or make opportunity to share
each others stories we would all learn and appreciate our differences and
learn of our similarities. Bravo to PBS and the independant Lens for
educating us all on the many faces and hearts of America.
3/31/04
Cara
Phoenix, Arizona
This series is amazing. I was glued to the TV with tears streaming down
my face. It's beautiful and touching. I appreciate the experience to know
what others go through to try to come to a country I take for granted
everyday. Thank you for making me more greatful for what I have.
3/31/04
Sekai M
Chicago, IL
This program was absolutely wonderful. I think people tend to forget that
EVERYONE is an immigrant here regardless of the circumstances of how we
got here. I think the program gives a unique perspective of the various
cultures and social dynamics that we have in America. It also shows that
we still have a long way to go in assisting newcomers on how to find their
niche in society and in our communities. My heart goes out to the two
young Nigerian ladies who are going through a minor culture schock, I
myself went through the reverse process of this since I was born here in
the US and was moved to Zimbabwe at the age of 13. The best thing to do is
try to balance the wonderful assimilation of cultures you are blessed with
and to persevere in your studies, because in this country, education is a
wonderful opportunity and a right.
3/31/04
Peg Hooper
Littleton, CO
A wonderful program, eye-opening and heart rending.
I thought my heart had broken in two when the son from the Mexican family
begged his father not to leave him behind. It was obvious he was not going
to be left, by the anxiety produced by the uncertainity of the process was
truly heartbreaking.
I disagree with some of the comments regarding the Palestinian family.
The bride's mother (sorry I am not good with names) made me laugh and
smile with her pronouncements regarding the conflict Israeli's and
Palestinians. They both share burden and blame.
My Mother and grandparents immigrated to Canada from Scotland in the
1920's, later they immigrated to the United States where my Grandfather
was a steel worker, helping build Detroit, Michigan. Here in Colorado we
have many immigrants from Central America and Mexico. I am sad to say that
in many instances they are not welcomed, even though they work so hard,
and their devotion to family is evident. I think we as a society need to
do some serious introspection as
to what our values truly are, and make some changes, sadly, I don't think
America is ready to do that right now.
3/31/04
Fatima A.
Pittsburgh PA
I think this is a great show! I watch it all the time even when its on at
3am in the morning (reruns) hehe i love the mexican family story and i
also love Naima's story. I know what its like to be a new American and
start a hard new life because i've only been here for about nine years and
i've adapted to this great nation. I understand what those families are
going through and i think more people should watch this show, i'm sure
they'd also be touched by these great interesting people who go through
alot to get to the United States. But sadly the US isnt able to take in
everyone,so people in poor countries have to make the best out of whatever
life they have at the moment.
Well all i wanted to say is that i love the show and keep it up PBS!
3/31/04
Patricia O.
Waukegan, Illinois
Bravo WTTW for airing this special.
Although my family have been here for many generations I still have deep
empathy for these immigrant families. I just cannot imagine picking up my
entire life and moving to another country to escape poverty, or war, or
occupation or death.
This concept is almost lost on most natural-born Americans whose families
have been here for many generation.
I want each of these families to grab every opportunity available to
them...espeicially the Ogani people.
Thanks PBS for bringing such a DIVERSE group of immigrants for this
special. America is not perfect, but for some its the best thing going
right now.
America, please accept these new americans.
3/31/04
Mirela
The show is superb because I can really relate to it being an immigrant
myself. The content is very educational, and it reminded me how lucky I am
to be living in the country where anything is possible with hard work and
determination.
The most touching story, for me, was about the Mexican father who works
at the slaughterhouse in Kansas and is trying to relocate his family to
the US from Mexico. Watching the segment brought me to tears because it's
just amazing how far a man would go for his family. It encouraged me to
appreciate everything I have.
I am a student at University of South Florida, so my goal is to get
involved in helping immigrants worldwide once I graduate. Helping people
has always been my passion, but watching the show reconfirmed my future
plans.
Thank you for such a wonderful show.
3/31/04
Aderonke Salisu
NewJersey
Thanks to PSB for covering this story. It really shows the struggles that
emmigrants from other countries go through when they get to the United
States. I am also an emmigrant in this country.
I came to the United Sates at the age of 16 and I have lived the American
dream by practically sending myself to school without any help at all from
anyone.
Today I have a bachlors in Accounting and a great job. However, it is
really difficult to forget the country I hail from Nigeria. I may live in
America now. But Nigeria will always be Home. Thanks
3/31/04
Cecilia Martinez
Austin, Texas
I don't have a story, but was extremely touched by everyone's struggles
and experiences, and especially by the Flores family. I feel compelled to
help them. How can I help?
CEC~
Thank you for bringing these issues to my attention on a 'personal'
level. After watching this, how can one not understand or want to offer
assistance?
3/31/04
Pittsburgh PA
Just a quick note: I, too, just "happened" upon your program and was very
happy that I did so.
What struck me about the New Immigrants' stories was the commonality of
human emotion. The smiles, the tears, and their causes are universally
experienced. When viewers concentrate on that, do any differences among
peoples matter at all?
PS Simply LOVED the Palestinian newly weds' humor; their mother/in-law's
comments were priceless, too.
3/31/04
Two words to describe the show - "Totally Awesome." Very well done.
3/31/04
In The United States today I believe we are seeing a melting pot of so
many cultures that it is creating a set up for disaster. I cant see how
civil differances will not erupt, it seems to be a current trend already
here in California. Having said that, I watched the show last night and
was deeply touched by all the stories of the families. I got the
impression that all of them would much rather live in there own countries
if only they could make a living there. It appears that they don't want to
be here at all but are forced here out of a desperate situation. I applaud
them for making a decision to take such a dramatic step to improve there
situations but on the same note I am shall we say, angered! It seems
harsh, but I love my country just as they love theres. I feel like I'm
being used and abused by immigrants. What I feel is this. If people want
to come here to better there lives, that's great. but I want them to
respect America for who and what this country is. Become an American and
honor the flag,
the culture and the people. Serve the country and embrace it. Do not long
to return to where they fled from and say things like this is not my home
or my country. Make it your home and your country. The country was founded
by Immagrants. (Unless we were to discuss the American Indians..a whole
other issue). If there not happy here, go home and see what they can do to
make a differance in the country they do want to live in. Help rebuild and
re-educate those countries so that they can stay and live where they want
to be. If they want to be In America and truly love the country...Welcome,
with all my heart.
3/31/04
Silvia C
Santa Clara, CA
I am the daughter of an immigrant on my father's side and 3rd generation
American on my mother's side. I know the stories of hardships from my
family history, but actually seeing these same struggles from newer
immigrants was insightful. It's a history lesson about my own family's
history!
More importantly, watching "New Americans" has been a humbling experience
for me. What I take for granted on a daily basis, new immigrants do not.
They appreciate what I have not...the job that I have (yet I complain
about), the car that I drive (always wanting a newer one), the college
education that I have received (yet I did not
take seriously), the English language that I speak with ease (yet I
struggle to speak Spanish to immigrants in my own town), the world
traveling that I have done (but not really seeing the world through
somebody else's eyes).
Wow...this show has really affected me. Kudos to PBS for airing this
enlightening documentary!
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