My name is Stephanie, and I'm from Laguna Niguel, California. In March of 2025, my parents were deported to Colombia. As the daughter of two immigrant parents, I've made it my mission to share their story and bring awareness to the struggles faced by immigrant families. Immigrants deserve respect and dignity, yet what we often see is a harsh reality filled with injustice. This is why I’m calling on congress to help create a pathway for deported parents of U.S. citizen children to come home. 

My parents were deported, leaving our family separated, despite the deep ties we built in the United States. Like thousands of other families, we have experienced the pain of missed birthdays, holidays, milestones, and everyday moments that can never be replaced.

Since my parents’ deportation, I have done everything I can to share my parents’ story. This included reaching out to Congressman Mike Levin, who listened to my family's situation. His support was invaluable. It demonstrated the power of our representatives to make a difference in the lives of immigrants. However, the challenges and negative rhetoric around immigrants, especially the harmful views propagated at major events like the State of the Union, show that we need change at all levels of government. 

Family unity has long been recognized as a core American value. Yet many U.S. citizen children and family members are forced to live without their parents because there is no realistic pathway for reunification after deportation.

I am calling on Congress to create a legal pathway that allows deported parents of U.S. citizen children and close family members to apply for family reunification when they meet clear eligibility requirements.

This reform should:

• Prioritize keeping families together whenever possible.
• Create a transparent process for deported parents seeking reunification.
• Recognize long-term ties to the United States, including family, work history, and community involvement.
• Ensure applications are reviewed fairly and efficiently.

This petition is not about politics. It is about families. No child should have to grow up wondering when they will see their parent again. No family should be permanently separated without a meaningful opportunity to reunite.

By signing this petition, you are standing with families like mine and supporting a more compassionate immigration system that values family unity.

Please sign and share.