My parents do not deserve this!
They came here in search for that “American Dream.” They came here to pursue a better future for themselves and their families back in their hometown, the Philippines. They came here with open arms, diving into different jobs regardless of the circumstances, to provide for their own family. They came here to live a life less complicated and hectic as it was in comparison to the hardship their parents had to succumb with, such as the Martial Law era. They came here with nothing but good intentions to merely financially help them. It has been over 20 years since they arrived. Now they have no choice but to go back to where they have started.
However, I’m also speaking on behalf of the CW workers populating Saipan who will have to deal with this crisis. Here’s to those who have spent nearly half of their lives working incessantly to provide for the people they love.
If you think about it, dramatic shifts will not only occur within the lives of CW workers, but as well as the economy of the island. Their population has occupied majority of this island’s whole population, which can have a domino effect on factors, both big and small, in this island. Factors including the economy, power, water, and sewage facilities—factors that help Saipan stay grounded. They have shown nothing but hospitality, diligence, and flexibility to the people around them; non-hesitant with enduring perilous tasks such as dealing with rude remarks from tourists or working during Typhoon Soudelor.
Politicians are supposed to look at issues through different perspectives and represent their people. Although, there are more people than just a panel or committee, but thousands willing to voice their stories just so they could continue with the life they are building since their arrival.
I’m just one of those people and I’m not even a CW worker.
Ariane Reyes
Via email
Contract workers came to work as top most on their agenda, and absent the so called “american dream”. If they do,then they would have pursued the process of becoming residents through the U.S. Immigration. Simple answer….
CWs were never promised improved immigration status or misled about it in any way, shape or form. When your parents agreed to come to the CNMI 20 years ago they knew exactly what they were getting into. The rules haven’t changed. You say your parents don’t deserve this but they’re getting exactly what they signed on for.