Define American’s Statement Regarding Our Founder and President Jose Antonio Vargas’ Change of Legal Status

Define American applauds the decision to grant our Founder and President, Jose Antonio Vargas, an O visa. Like the family and friends of so many other undocumented people in this country, we have long waited and wished for a way for Jose to continue his 30+ years of life and work in this country without the ever-present fear of deportation.

As we often say, there are over 47 million immigrants in this country, meaning there are over 47 million ways to be an immigrant.

Of those 47+ million people, an estimated 11+ million are undocumented. Each of these people has their own story, their own legal situation, and their own hopes, dreams and fears, and they are all integral members of our communities.

Our work at Define American is to provide resources and research to help ensure that immigrant stories are told with nuance and authenticity. Together, we can redefine the conversation around immigration and identity, and foster a greater sense of belonging for immigrants across this country.

For Jose’s full announcement and story, get the latest episode of Define American with Jose Antonio Vargas here: Episode 10 – How I Got “Legal” After 31 Years as an Undocumented American.