Binational Couples and Immigration Policy

Our stories are sensitive ones that involve being careful in our attempt to be heard or we could face repercussions. Many of us are ready to take that chance. Uniting American Families Act (UAFA) will remedy all of this, but has no chance of passing, unless more people hear our stories. The only thing more difficult than having to choose between the love of your life and the love of your country is making someone understand exactly what that means.

I was once waiting on the other side waiting for my partner to come through customs and immigration after they physically separated us. Ultimately we were forced to leave, but one day I want to return there and bring my spouse to live with me. I have a home and a beautiful family there, and a father that needs me. But, America doesn't want us to be part of any of that because I fell in love with a non-American. Neither of us are terrorists or criminals of any sort...my partner is from Germany. America has turned it's back on us simply because we are gay and the same laws and rights do not apply. Immigration law recognizes that it's excessively cruel to keep family members apart, but forbids LGBT families from sponsoring our loved ones for immigration purposes.

It's a sad day when you realize that you're purposefully being excluded from the pursuit of happiness--and no one seems to care. It's even sadder when fellow Americans sit back and allow it to happen without saying anything...especially gay and lesbians. I hope none of you ever know what that feels like. When your own people throw you and your family to the wayside and you are no more than strangers to them, you feel the exclusion of an America that is unfamiliar and unexpected to the rest of the world. Look into our lives and you will see the tragedy that America is causing to one of her own--- live in our shoes for a day and you will feel it.

In short, all we are asking for, is our freedom.