The Limbo life: season 4 SoM is losing it!
March 1, 2008 7:20 AM Subscribe
I need a resolution! to keep going!
I need to get out of the restaurant industry in NY, NY. I'd rather do hard labor or slavery if I'm provided with shelter and food. I've rarely been able to keep a job in that business for more than eight months. I just lost 2 jobs within a week of each other. I'm thinking construction in the Brooklyn, New York area.
Here's the kicker: I'm an illegal alien. It's a story you've heard before. Both me and my sister were brought here as children and have been in limbo ever since. Through sheer determination, she managed to get a BA from CUNY, soon I mustered some moxie of my own and followed suit. We had no financial aide no loans. Furthermore, my A student sister couldn't cash in on any of her scholarships. All tuitions were paid for "straight cash"at the bursar. Through underground savvy, we both managed to get bank accounts. I applied for and received an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number so I could pay taxes and integrate myself somehow. Also, I could feel like a contributing member of society. My sister, whom by then grew paranoid was convinced she would never see me again if I had the balls to ask the IRS for an ITIN. She never got one and wrote down my last words as I headed off to the IRS office to apply. (It's still on her bedroom wall.)
Four years ago we applied for adjustment of status through an immigration lawyer on Wall street NY. I checked on the progress through the net and calling the (then known as) INS. I was told that our files were backlogged and had a wait time of at least 3 yrs before processing would begin. Then, beginning of the fourth year, we received a letter stating something along the lines of "your application has been postponed indefinitely". Upon receiving this letter I roundly crumpled and cast the ball at mother who couldn't comprehend the lawyerspeak contained therein. My sister hastily asked for copies of her file and summoned a new lawyer who she plans to pay for herself. I, who is frequently out of work, am left to fend for myself for the first time in this matter, although as siblings we remain close.
We've both been toiling in the restaurant industry (as waiters bartenders) for a number of years, but I'm starting to feel like it's not for me. I want to bail. My sister is convinced that its a matter of simply calling construction companies and applying. I disagreed and contended that- as an illegal, you must have an "in" with other illegals in that business to get work. I have a feeling that-that industry is heavy in paper trails what-with unions and whatnot and that's a bad thing for me. I don't know any Mexicans or anyone in those circles.
Is there any options for an assimilated, Americanized, fluent English speaking, Educated, multi-lingual illegal alien In NY? I am positive I am not alone. Also, is there a support group for just these kinds of immigrants in NY? (not an average crackhouse for clueless refugees-a place that caters to people in exactly my situation). Also My very immobility and economic paralysis makes it hard to find someone to love an marry. Also a half-brained marriage-for-pay hi-jinx is out of the question. I couldn't possibly post this without full details, because I'm honestly looking for thoughtful help. At least a few words of encouragement to help combat my growing disillusion with my life and purpose. How does one revitalize in such a difficult battle? Is there any options or should I just end it all now?
America is all I i know and where I want to be. Looking back to my old country is like remembering a dream-for both me and sis. I hold American values, I feel American and wish nothing more than to be American. I am only fluent in one language English. My old country is devastated and provides me with no opportunities. (I'll probably die in a protest or assassinated if I take up a mantle.)
My old country is not a participant in the Visa Lottery. My old country has low priority on the list of immigrants from preferred countries. ( I presume because of absurdly high illiteracy [80%] which in turn presumably expatriates welfare seekers and criminals, political asylum seekers etc...this is my own reasoning).
I need to get out of the restaurant industry in NY, NY. I'd rather do hard labor or slavery if I'm provided with shelter and food. I've rarely been able to keep a job in that business for more than eight months. I just lost 2 jobs within a week of each other. I'm thinking construction in the Brooklyn, New York area.
Here's the kicker: I'm an illegal alien. It's a story you've heard before. Both me and my sister were brought here as children and have been in limbo ever since. Through sheer determination, she managed to get a BA from CUNY, soon I mustered some moxie of my own and followed suit. We had no financial aide no loans. Furthermore, my A student sister couldn't cash in on any of her scholarships. All tuitions were paid for "straight cash"at the bursar. Through underground savvy, we both managed to get bank accounts. I applied for and received an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number so I could pay taxes and integrate myself somehow. Also, I could feel like a contributing member of society. My sister, whom by then grew paranoid was convinced she would never see me again if I had the balls to ask the IRS for an ITIN. She never got one and wrote down my last words as I headed off to the IRS office to apply. (It's still on her bedroom wall.)
Four years ago we applied for adjustment of status through an immigration lawyer on Wall street NY. I checked on the progress through the net and calling the (then known as) INS. I was told that our files were backlogged and had a wait time of at least 3 yrs before processing would begin. Then, beginning of the fourth year, we received a letter stating something along the lines of "your application has been postponed indefinitely". Upon receiving this letter I roundly crumpled and cast the ball at mother who couldn't comprehend the lawyerspeak contained therein. My sister hastily asked for copies of her file and summoned a new lawyer who she plans to pay for herself. I, who is frequently out of work, am left to fend for myself for the first time in this matter, although as siblings we remain close.
We've both been toiling in the restaurant industry (as waiters bartenders) for a number of years, but I'm starting to feel like it's not for me. I want to bail. My sister is convinced that its a matter of simply calling construction companies and applying. I disagreed and contended that- as an illegal, you must have an "in" with other illegals in that business to get work. I have a feeling that-that industry is heavy in paper trails what-with unions and whatnot and that's a bad thing for me. I don't know any Mexicans or anyone in those circles.
Is there any options for an assimilated, Americanized, fluent English speaking, Educated, multi-lingual illegal alien In NY? I am positive I am not alone. Also, is there a support group for just these kinds of immigrants in NY? (not an average crackhouse for clueless refugees-a place that caters to people in exactly my situation). Also My very immobility and economic paralysis makes it hard to find someone to love an marry. Also a half-brained marriage-for-pay hi-jinx is out of the question. I couldn't possibly post this without full details, because I'm honestly looking for thoughtful help. At least a few words of encouragement to help combat my growing disillusion with my life and purpose. How does one revitalize in such a difficult battle? Is there any options or should I just end it all now?
America is all I i know and where I want to be. Looking back to my old country is like remembering a dream-for both me and sis. I hold American values, I feel American and wish nothing more than to be American. I am only fluent in one language English. My old country is devastated and provides me with no opportunities. (I'll probably die in a protest or assassinated if I take up a mantle.)
My old country is not a participant in the Visa Lottery. My old country has low priority on the list of immigrants from preferred countries. ( I presume because of absurdly high illiteracy [80%] which in turn presumably expatriates welfare seekers and criminals, political asylum seekers etc...this is my own reasoning).
I strongly suggest you get an admin to anonymize this.
If you're fluently bilingual (I can't tell, because you say you're multilingual, which implies fluency, and then say you are only fluent in English), why not try to get attached to your birth country's delegation at the UN?
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 7:48 AM on March 1, 2008
If you're fluently bilingual (I can't tell, because you say you're multilingual, which implies fluency, and then say you are only fluent in English), why not try to get attached to your birth country's delegation at the UN?
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 7:48 AM on March 1, 2008
"or should I just end it all now?"
Dude... that's a worrying thing to hear you say. If you're at all serious you need to get help right away. The folks at St. Francis Church in midtown run a counseling center. I suggest them because they're also involved in immigration issues (see below) though in NYC just about everybody is involved in immigrant issues these days... You can also call the Samaritains: (212) 673-3000.
"My old country is devastated and provides me with no opportunities. (I'll probably die in a protest or assassinated if I take up a mantle."
Is this more than a hypothetical on getting involved in politics? If it's more serious than that you should presumably talk to a lawyer about political asylum. You should talk to a lawyer or immigration expert anyways. The folks at St. Francis also run an immigration center... they might be able to help you and connect you up with resources.
I also thought of UN jobs... though it looks pretty competitive and I'm not sure if they'd hire you given your immigration status.
posted by Jahaza at 8:07 AM on March 1, 2008
Dude... that's a worrying thing to hear you say. If you're at all serious you need to get help right away. The folks at St. Francis Church in midtown run a counseling center. I suggest them because they're also involved in immigration issues (see below) though in NYC just about everybody is involved in immigrant issues these days... You can also call the Samaritains: (212) 673-3000.
"My old country is devastated and provides me with no opportunities. (I'll probably die in a protest or assassinated if I take up a mantle."
Is this more than a hypothetical on getting involved in politics? If it's more serious than that you should presumably talk to a lawyer about political asylum. You should talk to a lawyer or immigration expert anyways. The folks at St. Francis also run an immigration center... they might be able to help you and connect you up with resources.
I also thought of UN jobs... though it looks pretty competitive and I'm not sure if they'd hire you given your immigration status.
posted by Jahaza at 8:07 AM on March 1, 2008
You are very articulate and write a compelling story. What about doing something quite ballsy like contacting your congressperson and asking for some help speeding up your immigration status? You are going to find it nearly impossible to find steady work because the government is cracking down on employers and fining them big bucks for hiring illegals. Of course, this is all a crock, a way of looking like they are doing something but really I don't think they care much because businesses underpay illegals and make bigger profits and it is the businesses this government cares about more than the little people. ANYWAY, if you can locate a sympathetic congressperson or senator who might be able to help get the ball rolling for you, I'd go with that.
posted by 45moore45 at 8:33 AM on March 1, 2008
posted by 45moore45 at 8:33 AM on March 1, 2008
Do you have connections with people from your parents' country (or even that region)?
about jobs:
- tutoring, including languages (once you get a good reputation you can earn quite a lot per hour)
- freelance translation / writing / editing (if you can do this in two languages, you have twice as many opportunities as most people. For translation, you can also look for clients in other countries who need material translated into English. Translate into the language you know best)
- computer repair (not too much to learn if you feel like you don't know enough for this yet)
- odd-jobs guy (lots of people need small jobs done around the house and don't have the tools or ability to do it alone. Some people specialize in hanging things in walls, putting together Ikea furniture)
With all of these you can get started by hanging posters, posting craigslist ads, and telling everyone around that you're in business. It can take a while to get steady clients but it's something.
best of luck with everything
posted by trig at 8:44 AM on March 1, 2008
about jobs:
- tutoring, including languages (once you get a good reputation you can earn quite a lot per hour)
- freelance translation / writing / editing (if you can do this in two languages, you have twice as many opportunities as most people. For translation, you can also look for clients in other countries who need material translated into English. Translate into the language you know best)
- computer repair (not too much to learn if you feel like you don't know enough for this yet)
- odd-jobs guy (lots of people need small jobs done around the house and don't have the tools or ability to do it alone. Some people specialize in hanging things in walls, putting together Ikea furniture)
With all of these you can get started by hanging posters, posting craigslist ads, and telling everyone around that you're in business. It can take a while to get steady clients but it's something.
best of luck with everything
posted by trig at 8:44 AM on March 1, 2008
Response by poster: I have a A.A. in Video Arts & Technology (eg cameraman, post-prod. editor,lighting/technical director) TV and Film.
I am most fluent in English, however, I also speak my native language (Haitian Creole) and some French and some Spanish. btw I'm 25. I came here when I was 9 years old.
posted by Student of Man at 9:01 AM on March 1, 2008
I am most fluent in English, however, I also speak my native language (Haitian Creole) and some French and some Spanish. btw I'm 25. I came here when I was 9 years old.
posted by Student of Man at 9:01 AM on March 1, 2008
To get a construction job, go to a construction site and ask for the boss. He may not need any help at the moment, and he may not be willing to hire you without papers, but he's extremely unlikely to report you. That's too much hassle, and most general contractors are far too busy for that. Don't bother making phone calls. They are also too busy to return calls. Go directly to the job site. Be ready to answer questions about what you know how to do, and if you already own your own tools that's a bonus.
I've never been an illegal, but I used to be married to a construction worker, and he always got jobs this way. Good luck to you.
posted by happyturtle at 9:21 AM on March 1, 2008
I've never been an illegal, but I used to be married to a construction worker, and he always got jobs this way. Good luck to you.
posted by happyturtle at 9:21 AM on March 1, 2008
Having you considered starting a business (dunno about official licenses, taxes, etc.), something with low start-up costs? If you present yourself as a business owner offering a service instead of a potential employee, people probably won't even think to check your "papers". The library should have several books on businesses you can start at home and/or with low start-up costs.
posted by Jacqueline at 12:12 PM on March 1, 2008
posted by Jacqueline at 12:12 PM on March 1, 2008
"I have a A.A. in Video Arts & Technology (eg cameraman, post-prod. editor,lighting/technical director) TV and Film."
Business idea that uses your education: Buy or rent digital video equipment (if you don't already have some) and produce content for porn sites.
http://www.amazon.com/How-Internet-Pornographer-Lady-Sharlot/dp/0975291203/
Or any sort of business producing videos for people, but porn probably pays best.
posted by Jacqueline at 2:35 PM on March 1, 2008
Business idea that uses your education: Buy or rent digital video equipment (if you don't already have some) and produce content for porn sites.
http://www.amazon.com/How-Internet-Pornographer-Lady-Sharlot/dp/0975291203/
Or any sort of business producing videos for people, but porn probably pays best.
posted by Jacqueline at 2:35 PM on March 1, 2008
Check the odd jobs on craigslist.
And while your at it, if you need to save money, go scavenge the free food sitting outside any number of grocery stores (i.e. dumpstering). I live in Brooklyn and don't grocery shop. (I realize that's no exactly what you're after, but it might help. I've been down and out in this city and everything helps...)
posted by iamck at 5:04 PM on March 1, 2008
And while your at it, if you need to save money, go scavenge the free food sitting outside any number of grocery stores (i.e. dumpstering). I live in Brooklyn and don't grocery shop. (I realize that's no exactly what you're after, but it might help. I've been down and out in this city and everything helps...)
posted by iamck at 5:04 PM on March 1, 2008
You could video weddings. Figure out how to do that. You would do well to read some good books on business, accounting, marketing, etc. first.
posted by amtho at 6:24 PM on March 1, 2008
posted by amtho at 6:24 PM on March 1, 2008
If you sound American (and pretty much anyone looks like they could be American), it's not that uncommon for people working in construction to be looking for jobs that don't have the usual employment paperwork, possibly due to a legal proceeding in some other state that would result in wages being garnished if the usual paperwork was done. You can probably work out a cover story based on that background when you are looking for work.
posted by yohko at 3:22 PM on March 3, 2008
posted by yohko at 3:22 PM on March 3, 2008
This thread is closed to new comments.
Are you bilingual at all?
posted by amtho at 7:40 AM on March 1, 2008