Curej's story

My name is Curej Bered. I am from Somalia. I came to the United States a decade ago. I was very young and had to leave my family behind. I came because I thought I was my family's only hope for escaping from Civil War; and for a better life.
When I arrived I applied for sponsorship for my family so I can see them again.

For the past nine years I have worked very hard and I have paid my taxes; and for the past nine years I have not heard from Immigration.
NOTHING.

I made hundreds of calls. I can not believe so much time has passed and I still do not know what is happening with my case. My family's future is stuck.
It is now 2009.

My family and I often talk on the phone. It is very expensive but it is all I have. I am all they have to provide the very basics, like food.

Right now, things are even worse in Somalia. In one week I lost 3 family members because of the war. I know things are very bad in Somalia but I sometimes wonder if I made the right choice. I ask myself which is worse: trying to stay alive in Somalia or having to live the rest of my life without my family.

The thing I miss most is hugging my mother.

This is my story. There are many stories like mine. Please, President Obama, promise me you will work hard to change our Immigration System for the better. I know you understand the value of family.

Thank you.