After my sister was killed, and with the rise of crime and impunity in Mexico, my parents moved to the United States when I was a young child. In high school, after I was nominated and accepted to The National Youth Leadership Forum in Medicine, my parents grievingly told me I was undocumented and could be deported if I got on an airplane.
I met Congressman Chris Stewart while I was a student at the University of Utah. I was enlisting in the Army and had been recruited by an intelligence agency. However, being a DACA recipient, I was rejected to work in law enforcement, and I was unable to finish enlisting in the Army. When I asked Congressman Stewart for help, without hesitation he offered me his support — and within a week I was in his office explaining my situation.
Rep. Stewart has helped me with letters of recommendation on my behalf. He has reached out to federal and military agencies inquiring about the opportunity of serving my country. And as a friend, he has done everything possible to help me become a United States soldier.
I am heartened by legislation co-sponsored by Congressman Stewart, including the BRIDGE Act and the ENLIST Act, important pieces of legislation that would continue to protect DACA recipients.
America is the land of freedom and opportunity. With hard work, I graduated high school, served a two-year religious mission, graduated from the University of Utah and landed a job with a major technology company.
We need leaders like Congressman Chris Stewart — leaders who care for individuals. We need leaders who are open-minded, compassionate and willing to do the right thing for the American people. We need leaders who will find common ground. As a nation, we need leaders like Congressman Chris Stewart.
Alejandro Nunez
Provo