Undocumented Immigrants to Discuss 'Living in the Shadows' in America

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – What’s it like to grow up in America but not be an American?

Five young, undocumented immigrants will address that question and others as part of a unique panel discussion called “Undocumented: Living in the Shadows,” a nationally relevant exchange about the experiences and challenges faced by illegal aliens who have spent much, if not most, of their lives living in the United States.

The event is being coordinated by the University of Arkansas and will be held Monday, April 23, from 7:30-9 p.m. at the Town Center in Fayetteville.

“Regardless of one’s feelings about immigration reform or the proposed DREAM Act, we have a duty as citizens and as a university to learn more about the immigrant experience,” explained G. David Gearhart, chancellor of the University of Arkansas. “More than two million young people are living illegally in the United States, nearly all of them brought to this country by their parents at a very early age. Most of them have attended or are attending elementary and secondary schools in this country. Over 65,000 of them graduate from American high schools each year. Many of them want to go to college here, but because of personal factors and immigration status, most of them can’t afford to do so.”

The five panelists taking part in the discussion were brought by their parents to the U.S. at a young age. As Gearhart explained, some of them don’t have any connections or recollection of the country in which they were born. Two panelists are students who grew up in Arkansas. The other three panelists are recent college graduates who grew up in Massachusetts, New York and Virginia, respectively. Their undocumented immigration status makes travel within the U.S. difficult and risky and their ability to seek employment legally impossible.

“These panelists are taking a significant risk by making themselves so publicly visible,” Gearhart said. “We appreciate their willingness to share their stories. As a result, those who attend the event will gain a much better insight into the experiences and challenges young undocumented immigrants deal with.”

The April 23 event is open to the public and is free of charge. Seating at the Town Center is limited and will be available on a first-come basis. For more information contact urelinfo@uark.edu.