The world is a really scary place right now and I'm feeling all sorts of heartbroken. As much as some of you may not like to talk politics, I just can't ignore the social injustices happening right now.I AM AN IMMIGRANT. I was not born in the United States and I am not a US citizen. My family moved to the United States when I was 2 years old, so that my sister and I could have better opportunities. For years we were in the country illegally. Getting a green card is not as easy as it may seem, even back then. When I was in 4th grade we were deported out of the country. My entire family moved to Japan for a year while my parents worked diligently to sort out our paperwork. I had never been so scared in my entire life. The thought of possibly never returning to my home, my school, and my friends, was so terrifying, I cried myself to sleep almost every night that entire year. My roots are planted here, I was raised in the American culture, and I felt like an outsider in Japan. That year that I lived in Japan, I was grateful I got to connect with my origins, but it never really felt like home to me. And my heart was yearning to come back home.
Today I call Los Angeles my permanent residence. I have many friends from all different backgrounds- some who are also immigrants like I am. They come from various ethic and religious backgrounds and every day I learn so much from them. It is such a beautiful thing to be surrounded by diversity and I truly feel like it has made me a well rounded person. This is what my parents fought so hard for. This is why they brought us here in the first place. My heart goes out to anyone who is scared right now. I know what it feels like to not know if the place you love so much can be called home anymore. I know how terrifying it must be to not know what your future looks like. But I promise I will fight for you. I promise to speak up for you. There is no room for hate and intolerance in America.
To get informed and find out how you can help, please visit ACLU
Photos by Alex Perez
(Metallica Tee, Madewell jeans, faux fur coat c/o Sammy Dress, Timberland boots, Gucci belt)
The world is a really scary place right now and I'm feeling all sorts of heartbroken. As much as some of you may not like to talk politics, I just can't ignore the social injustices happening right now.I AM AN IMMIGRANT. I was not born in the United States and I am not a US citizen. My family moved to the United States when I was 2 years old, so that my sister and I could have better opportunities. For years we were in the country illegally. Getting a green card is not as easy as it may seem, even back then. When I was in 4th grade we were deported out of the country. My entire family moved to Japan for a year while my parents worked diligently to sort out our paperwork. I had never been so scared in my entire life. The thought of possibly never returning to my home, my school, and my friends, was so terrifying, I cried myself to sleep almost every night that entire year. My roots are planted here, I was raised in the American culture, and I felt like an outsider in Japan. That year that I lived in Japan, I was grateful I got to connect with my origins, but it never really felt like home to me. And my heart was yearning to come back home.
Today I call Los Angeles my permanent residence. I have many friends from all different backgrounds- some who are also immigrants like I am. They come from various ethic and religious backgrounds and every day I learn so much from them. It is such a beautiful thing to be surrounded by diversity and I truly feel like it has made me a well rounded person. This is what my parents fought so hard for. This is why they brought us here in the first place. My heart goes out to anyone who is scared right now. I know what it feels like to not know if the place you love so much can be called home anymore. I know how terrifying it must be to not know what your future looks like. But I promise I will fight for you. I promise to speak up for you. There is no room for hate and intolerance in America.
To get informed and find out how you can help, please visit ACLU
Photos by Alex Perez
(Metallica Tee, Madewell jeans, faux fur coat c/o Sammy Dress, Timberland boots, Gucci belt)
78 comments
I don't live in the USA, Yucca but I totally understand how you feel. And please know that the whole World is shocked by the latest development in the USA. Be strong!
ReplyDeleteX
Miri
http://currentlywearing.com
I understand you,diversity is such a beautiful thing! We can learn so much more from diversity of people,different religions and cultures,if only people could accept that and see the beauty in it :) Love your outfit,specially the shirt since I'm fan of Metallica :)
ReplyDeletemystylishcorner.blogspot.ba
I love that black fur coat on you babe. You are so gorgeous! I totally agree that diversity is so important and I just hope that over the years more and more people will recognize and work towards that. Happy that you're calling LA home today! xo, sharon
ReplyDeletehttp://www.stylelullaby.com/personal/up-close-personal-qa/
Love this edgy and cool look!
ReplyDeleteSuch a cute tee and coat! I NEED that belt!
xo.
Taylor
www.itswhatsin.com
I couldn't say "I understand" because it never happened to me and I'm to see you feel home in Los Angeles! That's a great message! The photos and look are gorgeous!
ReplyDeletehttp://violettedaily.com
The photos and the look are simple amazing!!! Love this post!
ReplyDeletexx
Mónica Sors
MES VOYAGES À PARIS
NEW POST: FJORDS OF NORWAY: FUR COAT AND JEANS
DON'T MISS: GUCCI BELT & FUR COAT IN NORWAY
I'm so sorry, all these changes must be so difficult for you right now! Prayers are with you and your family - I'm sure whatever happens you will be okay <3 Ps. love you outfit too btw
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I really love this!
ReplyDeleteBloglovin
STYLEFORMANKIND.COM
Love this edgy chic look on you!
ReplyDeleteHave a great start to your week !
Nina
xox
www.thecrispylipstick.com
Thanks for sharing your story. It is what makes the US great. I'm sorry for all that is going on right now.
ReplyDeleteAmy Ann
Straight A Style
Looking so fabulous! I love how you shared your story! Literally that is what makes us so great! I am so sorry for all that is going on right now! Sending you lots of good vibes!
ReplyDeletexoxo,Victoria
www.coffeeandablonde.blogspot.com
Thank you for sharing your story! I can't imagine how difficult it must be at the moment. My father's family came in France in the 60s to have a better life (they're from Africa) and I'm so grateful they fought. I was able to be born and raised in France, to get opportunities and to meet amazing people, because they wanted a better life for their son. x
ReplyDeleteJessica — NinetyCo
Thank you for sharing this, I understand how you feel. It is upsetting and infuriating, even enraging. I don't live in the US but I feel like the world is shifting into a negative space and hope that things better. I am so sorry you had to go through that, and as a third generation immigrant I can only sympathise with your pain but can empathise with how it feels to feel like you're suddenly not wanted anymore or seen as less than. Thank you for sharing, I found you on Bloglovin', I know this post isn't about your outfit but you are stunning xxx
ReplyDeleteALittleKiran | Bloglovin
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us and being so open. You are a beautiful writer -xo
ReplyDeleteShauna
www.lipglossandlace.net
Thanks for sharing! I can't imagine how hard that must have been. I love this outfit though! That furry coat is killer!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Jessi
http://www.thedarlingdetail.com/
Thank you for sharing your story. That must have been really tough! My heart goes out to those affected by what has been going on lately. But this outfit is amazing! I love your t-shirt. And you are too cute in those braids!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Rachel
http://thetrendytomboy.com/
Great total look
ReplyDeletewww.treschic.fashin
@mariajosegomezverdu
Me gusta mucho el chaquetón de pelo que llevas y como queda en este conjunto las trenzas que te has hecho!! Muy guapa!!
ReplyDeleteel blog de renée
I love this outif! you look so beautiful with it.
ReplyDeletekisses dear
www.aprendiendoaquererme.com
Such beautiful words. Seriously cannot believe we have to deal with issues like this in 2017..
ReplyDeleteStay strong, babe! (Oh and seriously love the outfit btw) <3
Enclothed Cognition
Love this post and your honesty! Very inspiring
ReplyDeletexx,
Areli // Areli's April blog
Areli's April on Bloglovin
Thanks for sharing, and being so honest!!
ReplyDeleteAnd I love this look!
Adi xx
fancycorrectitude.com
instagram.com/fancycorrectitude
I'm an immigrant myself and this topic is very important to me not just because I'm an immigrant but also because we are all humans and we need to be there for each other... The world is definitely becoming scarier each day and it's up to us to make it better!
ReplyDeleteXoXo,
Tamara - LoveofMode.com
Everything will get better! Loved your outfit and your fluffy coat! :)
ReplyDeletehttp://free-colors.blogspot.pt/
Lovely way to highlight the issue by sharing your story! America would be nothing without the hard work of immigrants, cultural diversity. In fact it wouldn't even exist without immigration and the founding of the country by immigrants! Xx
ReplyDeletewww.thefashionfolks.com
Love hearing your story! It takes courage and strength to personally speak about your issue!
ReplyDeleteI hope everyone has a great week!
xo, Yasmin
http://bit.ly/2l07GIVEAWAY
U look so beautiful in that black fur coat hun !! Xo, Neha
ReplyDeletehttp://www.theinstylejournal.com/
The world is looking on in shock hun at what is happening in the US. It's really feels like America took 10 steps backwards, thinking of you! xx
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thatnewdress.com
This is such a wonderful message...thank you so much for sharing! Also I'm loving the outfit...such a pretty coat!
ReplyDeletehttp://roadesque.com
http://ourruins.com
This is such an important issue and thanks for sharing your story! Love your outfit :)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.myclusterofthoughts.com/
My heart goes out to you hun, the whole world is shocked by what has happened,I am thinking of you lots xx
ReplyDeletewww.fashionjazz.co.za
Love the furry coat !! I wanted it but when I was going to order it it was sold out! lucky you! hahaha
ReplyDeletemgveronica.blogspot.com.es
Instagram: @veronicamgx
<3 I loved that you wrote about this babe and I read what happened to your dad on FB. Wishing you the best of luck and hope it all gets worked out!!
ReplyDeleteLisa Linh
https://www.bylisalinh.com/blog/2017/2/1/5-things-to-do-in-cabo-san-lucas
What a lovely post and I agree with you. Love the fur coat. xoxoxo
ReplyDeletewww.toksblog.com
Loving your vibe!
ReplyDeleteI know how difficult is to be an immigrant... Thank you for sharing your story with us!
www.nomoretulips.blogspot.com
Great post. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSo brave of you to share your story. It breaks my hear to see what's happening with our American neighbours right now. I only hope that the result is more unity and a desire to fight for what is right!
ReplyDeletexoxo Rina Samantha
http://www.andshedressed.com
Thank you for sharing your story! Unity is what the USA needs right now, not intolerance and walls. And on a lighter note, this look is absolutely perfect love the belt!
ReplyDeletexo Annie
New England Romance
Thank you so much for sharing your story, which is definitely important for everyone to read right now in this uncertain time. One of my best friends and her family had to wait over 10 years for their green card after moving to the states, which is such a crazy long time. I donate monthly to the ACLU and try to do my part to help others!
ReplyDeletehttp://thecourtneydiaries.com
You look fabulous! Loving the fur jacket!
ReplyDelete<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
such a great look dear, love the jacket! sending positive vibes your way!
ReplyDeletexx Melis
http://fashionmews.com
It sure is, I was never really into politics but I def. try to stay as informed as possible now! I love this look, the fur is a perfect touch!
ReplyDeletehttp://lifestylefinesse.com/progress/
What an amazing post Yuka! I can relate to this as I'm not originally from the states too though I very much assimilate with the american culture (going to an international school abroad didn't feel much different from an american school really). I think for people like us that went through everything (giving up a lot along the way) to call here our home is a blessing so I can imagine how difficult it is for people that due to certain ethnicity has that taken away from them. Thanks for sharing this as this post speaks volume in the blogging world :) xo~ Lena
ReplyDeletewww.thewanderliste.com
Hi there, this is my first time visiting your blog and I'm glad I stumbled upon it because this is such a powerful post. These are pretty heartbreaking and scary times, and I think there are some people that don't completely grasp that. There are also those who feel like they do not have anybody who understands their struggles and fears. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and for encouraging others to join you in supporting those who are most affected during this time.
ReplyDelete-Helen
Sweet Helen Grace
your coat is so fun, I love the texture
ReplyDeletexo
www.laurajaneatelier.com
Such an amazing and inspiring post babe <3
ReplyDeletehttp://www.pardonmyobsession.com/
Lovely outfit dear with that timbs.
ReplyDeleteBernie, xx
The Style Fanatic
I agree with what you say, being immigrant is not bad, I think the problem are the politicians. I don't like Trump and I'm very sorry with having this president...
ReplyDeleteAw, lady- I feel you. While I do not have first-hand experience with your struggles, I can absolutely understand your fears + feelings on this. I'm angry, too- I don't think exclusion is right- this is not what the country was founded on. We're ALL immigrants, some just a few generations back- so to start building walls and denying access is insane to me.
ReplyDelete-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Your look is great. I really love your style !
ReplyDeleteBest,
Measlychocolate by Patty
Measlychocolate now also on Facebook
Although I'm not from the US, nor an immigrant, this really got me teary eyed. I was born in Canada so I'm neighbouring to you and I feel your pain, especially since both of my parents were immigrants. They worked their asses off for our family to have a great life here. Immigrants are what make North America what it is today - we are thriving on every culture! I'm so happy to be in a place where diversity is celebrated every single day...it's sad what is happening in your country but don't let it tear you down. Trust me when I say the world is on your side! Btw, I LOVE the Tims <3
ReplyDeleteStacey + thebambieyes.com
What a lovely post Yuka. I know what you mean as I am immigrant myself. I moved to the UK almost 11 years ago and it is now my permanent home.
ReplyDeletewww.mydailywear.co.uk
Amazing outfit dear
ReplyDeletehttp://www.blackdressinspiration.com
Thanks for speaking out on this issue, I could not agree more. We can all play a part, no contribution is too small. Donating to the ACLU is a wonderful idea, and I just did a recurring monthly donation. Thank you for the words and beautiful reminder.
ReplyDeletexx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com
Wow, thanks for sharing your story girl. I can't imagine how that must feel but I definitely support everything you stand for and agree that the world is a scary ass place right now :( On a happier note, your outfit is cute as hell :) Love your styling as always.
ReplyDeletexx
Lauren
http://www.blameitonbarneys.com
I can't for the life of me imagine how this would feel. I mean, if someone was to say, Jenelle you have to go to Sweden, cause that is where your great grandfather came to Australia from, I would be lost. Even the fact that this is in question over there is insane. Thank you for sharing your story hun I hope that it brings you closer to a lot of people, if nothing else.
ReplyDeletexx Jenelle
www.inspiringwit.com
The fears that you have are not isolated. Many people are feeling worries and distrustful... let's just hope the concept of democracy stays strong and better choices are made for the next presidential election. Don't fear too much though! There are still good people!! Good always triumphs over evil... right? Right.
ReplyDelete♥
Amber
All the Cute
I read your story it is so painful...it would be a one of the baddest day of your life....
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Such an awesome look!!! Wow! I love that coat! =)
ReplyDelete- Cielo
Mermaid in Heels
Love it!
ReplyDeleteEliana,
https://around-eliana.blogspot.pt/
Really loved this post. I think it's so refreshing that you have used your platform to advocate the notion behind immigration law and politics. Love the outfit post to keep rocking and once again your awesome!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your story, it breaks my heart to see what is happening in the US right now, I can't imagine how it must feel like to go through what you did, stay strong <3
ReplyDeleteOh babe, I can not even imagine what you must be going through right now and even back in time as a child when you had to leave your home. Stay strong. I love your outfit today.. the coat is gorgeous! Gemma x
ReplyDeletewww.jacquardflower.uk
I can't even begin to understand what it must be like for you in this current political situation but hopefully the voice of many who feel the same way as you will eventually be heard! Thanks for sharing your story babe.
ReplyDeletex Emily
http://shedoes.com.au
I don't even understand what you might have gone through but It's great to see that you feel at home in America now and have made a lot of friends. Also, I love your outfit dear!
ReplyDeleteSubomi|My Fashion Musings
Sending you good vibes. I can't imagine going through what you have gone through or how immigrants in the US feel right now. It has been interesting living as an American in Germany when so much is going on back home. It breaks my heart too.
ReplyDeleteAnnessa
www.seekingsunshine.com
Hi honey! I definitely feel your pain. I am a daughter of immigrants and this entire situation has me in shambles as well. I think what we need to do right now is stay positive, keep our heads up and fight for what's right.
ReplyDeleteXo
Jeanie
www.thefashionlotus.com
I am so sorry that you are going through all of this in US. The key is to remain positive and keep fighting. all the love and luck to you all.
ReplyDeletexo
naghmeh lesani
Girl, thank you SO much for addressing this. It's so heartbreaking to see people defend the administration's ban. It is so wrong and I don't understand how people can justify it as "hey it's only temporarily." My parents were Vietnamese refugees and I wouldn't be here today if it weren't for them. Sending you lots of love!
ReplyDeleteTina
www.justatinabit.com
omg love these furr coat
ReplyDeletehttp://thestyleride.com/valentine-fever-begins/
This was such a beautifully written post. I am not an immigrant so I can't speak firsthand about how this feels but I can speak for the fact that I am absolutely heartbroken and incredibly fearful for some people in my life. I, like you, have friends who are immigrants or children of immigrants and the fear and pain is very real and very against everything this country is supposed to stand for.
ReplyDeleteIt was a bad day for you....i suggest you forget that moment and move ahead for your successful life..Love
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I love your honesty here, and I absolutely agree with your sentiments. I cannot believe what has unfolded in this country in the past month but we have to keep our heads high. Sending you my love!
ReplyDeleteBest,
Christina
Looks by Lau
Wow loving everything about this look! You are gorgeous xoxo
ReplyDeletehttp://www.myinfinitystyle.com
Thanks for sharing girl. I wake up and listen to the news and can't believe what is going on. It feels like we are not moving forward at all and its terrifying. Sigh all we can do is protest and fight for our rights and for what is right. Thanks for being so transparent and talking about what's really going on. Love this outfit though very Missy Elliot!
ReplyDeleteChanel | Je M'appelle Chanel
Great message babe! Thank you for sharing your story, and I agree, there is no room for hate and intolerance. Great coat btw.
ReplyDeletewww.vivellefashion.com
I'm still in disbelief about what is happening to this country. And al within less than 4 weeks. Thanks for sharing your story! You and your family are the exact reason why America was founded, for the pursuit of a better life and opportunities.
ReplyDeletexx Nicole
http://toogoldstreet.com
Love the fur coat on you! Thanks for being so honest and sharing your personal story. I'm an immigrant too and I can totally feel your pain. Sending love to you and praying for a brighter future.
ReplyDeletexx Angela
www.crystalchiffon.com