Hi, I’m Cristal. I moved to the U.S. legally as a minor, but due to the backlash of 9/11, my family's visa application was pushed back and I, no longer a minor, ended up undocumented for many years. Today, I am a proud U.S. citizen, a valued contributor to my community, and a business owner. My story, however, is far from unique - there are countless others who find themselves caught up in legal and bureaucratic obstacles, struggling to contribute to their communities and the country they consider home. And there are many other individuals who dream the American dream, have much to offer our nation, and would be happy to EARN a lawful pathway towards living in the U.S. 

This is why I am appealing to you today to ask President Trump to pioneer the creation of a free Merit and Public Service Visa Program. This initiative would allow carefully screened individuals the opportunity to earn a green card in exchange for cumulative volunteer work. Especially in fields that are persistently understaffed yet critically important, like Veterans Hospitals, National Parks, Public Libraries, Museums, Animal Shelters, and technical vocations prepared to accept reciprocal licenses such as nursing, engineering or teaching.

With the national debt at its highest ever, there are plenty of opportunities for carefully vetted prospective immigrants to earn a pathway towards citizenship by making substantial contributions to our nation, while simultaneously freeing up resources in understaffed sectors. 

Please support our petition to President Trump. It's time we offer those who are willing and able an opportunity to contribute to their communities, by way of a merit and volunteer work based pathway towards citizenship. We will all benefit from the talent, commitment, and resourcefulness they bring. Your signature can bring us one step closer to making this happen. Please sign this petition.