On April 24, the League of Women Voters welcomed Jose A. Serrano, Director of the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs for Orange County, who shared his journey and insights into the complexities of immigration in the United States.

Serrano recounted his family’s immigration story, which began in 1994, highlighting the challenges they faced as undocumented immigrants for over two decades. “My parents primarily wanted to give us a better education,” he stated, emphasizing the fundamental human instinct to seek a better life. He expressed concern about the negative framing of immigration, noting that referring to it as an “immigration issue” shapes public discourse detrimentally.

During his presentation, Serrano outlined the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs role, established by Orange County Supervisor Doug Chaffee to serve as a resource hub for the county’s diverse community. His office aims to foster belonging and equity while promoting economic prosperity by collaborating with local partners.

“Success for us is about celebration,” Serrano remarked, challenging the notion that resources are limited and emphasizing that opportunities exist for all.

Serrano emphasized the significance of the immigrant population in Orange County, where nearly one in three residents is an immigrant. He noted that of approximately 3 million people in the county, almost 100,000 immigrant business owners contribute an estimated $10 billion in tax revenue. “We must acknowledge how we all contribute to our community,” he urged attendees to recognize the vital role immigrants play in the local economy.

The presentation also delved into the status of asylum seekers, who share challenges similar to those faced by refugees. Serrano explained the complexities of immigration law, particularly regarding legal frameworks like the Safe Third Country Agreement, which can complicate asylum eligibility for individuals traversing countries such as Guatemala and Mexico. “The U.S. immigration landscape is fraught with complexities that often leave many bewildered,” he noted.

Serrano illuminated the struggles of asylum seekers who often flee oppressive regimes only to face legal obstacles upon seeking refuge. He pointed out the contradiction in requiring individuals to request permission from the very governments from which they are escaping, underscoring the illogical nature of immigration laws in such dire circumstances.

The term “credible fear” was a focal point in Serrano’s discussion, encapsulating the fundamental right to seek asylum for anyone feeling unsafe. However, the bureaucratic hurdles surrounding this right often overshadow the urgent need for protection, as illustrated by personal stories of families navigating U.S. immigration law.

He recounted the difficulties faced by one family attempting to secure a green card through a family-based petition, which was delayed due to their ineligibility under the first preference category. “When my sister and I turned 21, we aged out of the petition, losing our eligibility,” Serrano explained, highlighting the frustrations many immigrant families encounter within the legal system.

Through his narrative and policy insights, Serrano aims to foster a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience in Orange County, pushing for a more compassionate and accurate portrayal of an often misunderstood population.

According to a recent impact report from California, immigrant residents substantially influence the state’s economy, contributing approximately $151 billion in taxes. In Orange County, nearly one million immigrants alone help generate around $10 billion in tax revenue, highlighting their essential role within the community.

However, the connection between immigrants and the broader community remains a challenge. During a recent presentation, community leader Serrano emphasized the importance of fostering empathy and understanding in today’s polarized environment. He urged attendees to engage with their neighbors and recognize each other’s humanity, even amidst differing viewpoints.

Serrano offered practical advice for building connections across diverse backgrounds, suggesting that simply being present and supportive can create meaningful interactions that alleviate feelings of loneliness. He shared personal experiences, noting how being listened to has brought him comfort and relief in difficult times.

Encouragement and the celebration of differences, Serrano asserted, are crucial for community cohesion. He encouraged individuals to seek interactions with those from various cultural backgrounds, pointing out that these efforts, though requiring minimal initiative, can yield profoundly rewarding outcomes.

It is essential to clarify the terminology associated with individuals seeking a better life. Serrano outlined five critical areas impacting immigrants’ lives: immigration services, education and employment, housing, health, and mental wellness—including nutrition. Providing targeted services in these categories reflects a commitment to assist marginalized populations, aligning with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Serrano also acknowledged the unique challenges faced by individuals from vulnerable backgrounds. He highlighted that terms like “refugee,” “asylum seeker,” and “person without status” are often used interchangeably but represent distinctly different experiences shaped by individual circumstances. Understanding these definitions is essential for fostering meaningful conversations about support systems for these populations.

Serrano shared his journey as the Office of International Affairs director, revealing that he lived without legal status for over 20 years after immigrating to the U.S. in 1985. Driven by the hope for better education and opportunities, his family’s experience reflects a broader narrative that often gets lost in the negative framing of immigration as merely an “issue.”

“Who wouldn’t want the best for their children?” Serrano asked, highlighting the fundamental human instinct to seek a better future. He conveyed the importance of humanizing immigration discussions, reminding the audience to see immigrants as family rather than strangers.

Discussing the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, which was established by the Orange County Board of Supervisors and Chairman Doug Chaffee, Serrano explained its mission to be a central resource hub for the community. The office aims to foster belonging and empower individuals to reach their potential by providing resources and opportunities tailored to diverse journeys and experiences.

Attendees received a pamphlet titled the Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Resource Guide, outlining five key areas the office addresses to ensure equity, belonging, economic prosperity, and celebration.

Serrano stated that a measure of success for the office would be the celebration of the diverse communities within Orange County. He noted the prevailing belief among many that opportunities are constrained, a perception he contended is a misguided zero-sum mentality. “This country is not a limited resource; it offers abundant opportunities,” he asserted.

Orange County is home to a vibrant and diverse population, with nearly one in three residents being immigrants—approximately 3 million individuals. An additional 5 million residents have immigrant roots, reflecting these communities’ significant influence on the region’s cultural and economic landscape.

This demographic reality underscores the integral role immigrants play in shaping local society. According to recent data, nearly 100,000 employees in Orange County are business owners or entrepreneurs, contributing over $10 billion in tax revenue. This economic impact clearly illustrates the essential contributions of immigrant communities to the local economy.

As conversations about immigration and awareness continue to evolve, shifting the narrative surrounding immigrants as vital contributors to society remains crucial. To understand this narrative, it’s essential to differentiate between the terms “refuge” and “refugee.” Migration is typically influenced by both “push” and “pull” factors.

For many, like those who moved to the United States for better opportunities, the pull factors can include enhanced educational prospects and economic advancement. For instance, my parents immigrated in 1984 in search of these opportunities, motivated to improve their lives and seize the U.S.’s possibilities.

However, not all migrants have the same experience. Many are forced to leave their home countries due to dire circumstances—called push factors—which can strip them of control and options. This stark difference highlights the complexities of migration.

Refugees, as defined by international law, are individuals who face a well-founded fear of persecution based on various factors such as race, ethnicity, or political opinion. Those who qualify can leave their country and seek refuge through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) offices. This process involves thorough screenings, including medical examinations and checks by U.S. agencies like the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security. The road to resettlement can be long and arduous, often involving lengthy stays in refugee camps.

Once in the U.S., those granted refugee status can work but remain deportable until they achieve citizenship. Current administrative policies underscore the precarious nature of established residents, as they may still face deportation under certain circumstances.

Similarly, asylum seekers must demonstrate a fear of persecution but can seek protection without going through UNHCR if no offices exist in their country. This is particularly evident with individuals fleeing from South America through Mexico. Under recent policies like the Safe Third Country Agreement, those fleeing would generally need to apply for asylum in Mexico before coming to the U.S.—a complex and often fraught journey given the conditions they are escaping.

The U.S. immigration system poses unique challenges, contrasting with European frameworks where refugees might have more accessible pathways. For individuals escaping oppressive regimes, the idea of seeking government permission to flee is often unrealistic and dangerous.

In U.S. immigration, trails of hope often intertwine with formidable obstacles. For many, the journey begins with family-based petitions, as was the case for Serrano, a young immigrant who faced a protracted and challenging path toward legal status. In 1980 and again in 1985, petitions were filed for him and his sister. Still, as they approached adulthood, they found they were out of eligibility, forcing them to restart their quest in an already convoluted system.

After graduating from UCLA, Serrano found himself undocumented and grappling with the responsibilities of single parenthood. With both parents lacking legal status and minimal assistance from uncles, who do not qualify as relatives under immigration law, his options became severely restricted. The prospect of filing through a sibling in the United States was impossible until he turned 21, leaving him potentially waiting another two decades to pursue independent status.

Serrano’s journey highlights the numerous hurdles immigrants face. Due to previous violations, he would need to leave the U.S. and apply for a waiver, meaning a decade of separation from his family while awaiting approval from immigration authorities—a process laden with uncertainty.

“This personal experience sheds light on the broader challenges faced by many,” she stated, emphasizing the disconnect between the public perception of immigration and its reality. Serrano articulated that discussions about applying for legal status often miss the complexities involved, a sentiment echoed by many in similar predicaments.

While the United States is viewed as a land of opportunity, the immigration landscape is complex. Family-based petitions are a common entry point, yet critical options such as refugee status and protections under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) play an essential role for vulnerable groups. Moreover, survivors of crimes may seek assistance through collaboration with law enforcement, further diversifying the pathways to legal relief.

Amidst these challenges, employment-based immigration remains another avenue, albeit one rife with competition. With approximately 5 million individuals vying for jobs in this sector, opportunities often favor those with significant financial resources.

While at UCLA, Serrano observed the shifting landscape of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Living without protective status brought everyday challenges, such as securing credit. However, community support proved instrumental in his educational success. “Without individuals who genuinely care, I might not have graduated in just three and a half years,” he reflected, underscoring the importance of community in these journeys.

Despite his accomplishments, Serrano expressed a lingering sense of disconnection, revealing many immigrants’ profound struggle regarding their sense of belonging. “The answer is no,” he candidly stated when asked if he feels connected to the place he calls home.

In a recent engagement at a local elementary school, Serrano addressed the challenges of his job with the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. “The overwhelming challenges can often eclipse the positive aspects of my work,” he admitted, emphasizing the need to reshape the narrative surrounding immigration to highlight community involvement.

A report from California revealed the significant economic contributions of immigrant residents, totaling approximately $151 billion in taxes annually. In Orange County alone, about one million immigrants contribute around $10 billion, which is integral to the region’s entrepreneurial spirit and economic vitality.

Serrano’s experiences and insights emphasize the necessity of acknowledging the realities of the immigrant experience, framing it as a call to action. “To live in the unimaginable” encapsulates the challenges and resilience of countless individuals navigating this complex system.

For more information and resources contact the Orange County Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs at: https://ssa.ocgov.com/OIRA 

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