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An East Bay Filipino family is threatened with deportation after failed attemps of permanent residency. Please sign the petition to keep the Cuevas family in the United States. Spread the word!
Family Avoids Deportation For Now | Sign the Petition | SF Chronicle Article | SJ Mercury News
Family On Brink of Exile Attempts To Gain Asylum
By Bill Luecke, SDSU's Daily Aztec For many, the American dream extends farther than the mall. For many, the American dream is more than opportunity - it's life. For the Cuevas family that lives in the East Bay near San Francisco, America has become more than this. The Cuevas family is facing deportation on Feb. 17 to the Philippines - a country they barely remember and one whose culture their adult children know little about. A friend of mine who knows the Cuevas family brought this particular case to my attention. Cases like it are unfortunately frequent in the United States. Two such incidents have been recorded on www.sfgate.com - those of the Cuevas family and the Cabrera family. In 1983, Benigno Aquino was assassinated. Aquino was the opposition leader to then-Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. Following the assassination, the Philippine economy took a turn for the worst and the father of the Cuevas family lost his job (the mother and father of the Cuevases asked not to have their first names used). The family fled to the United States in search of asylum. The children had no idea they were in the country illegally until last December, when they received a letter informing them they had 70 days to leave the country. The children had lived a very American life until that point. Donna, 24, received her bachelor's degree in psychology from California State University Hayward last month and was ready to apply for internships and graduate school. Dale, who turns 23 today, was pursuing an associate's degree in business from De Anza College. Dominique, 19, was a nursing student at San Jose State. The Cabrera family's story is similar in many respects to that of the Cuevases. The Cabreras, however, were approved for permanent residence because they proved deportation would place an extreme hardship upon their family. Deportation would have split the family apart. Benjamin Cabrera would have been forced back to his native Mexico, while Londy Cabrera would have been deported to her native Guatemala. Londy and Benjamin's two daughters would have been forced to move to a foreign country or remain with their grandparents in Los Angeles. In addition to the hardships imposed by the distance, the Cabrera children were helping support their parents. The hardship standard would have fallen on the Cabreras' daughters, who were born in the United States, and their parents, who are naturalized citizens. In 1996, President Clinton signed the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act. This law changed the standards by which an immigrant could establish residency. Under the act, immigrants now must establish 10 years of continuous residency as opposed to the previous seven. Immigrants also must establish proof of "exceptional" hardship that affects not the undocumented immigrants but relatives who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The Cabrera family was able to qualify. The Cuevas family cannot. None of the Cuevases are legal United States residents. However, they have contributed to our community for 19 years. According to www.sfgate.com, the Cuevas application for asylum was denied in 2000 and the family was placed on order to depart voluntarily under the new law. In 2002, the Board of Immigration Appeals turned them down. The case went to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco last year and was again rejected. The Cuevases are preparing for the worst-case scenario - they have settled all their debts and sold the few luxury items they had acquired. In their eyes, it's what one does as a responsible member of the community. More than anything, the family is worried about the life they may have in the Philippines. Many of their relatives live in the United States. The only relatives they have left in the Philippines live in Mindanao, where the father is originally from. Poverty and violence have plagued the area. He says he fears his children could be singled out for kidnapping because they speak only English and could be mistaken for rich Americans. If any of you would like to help the Cuevas family, a petition has been started as a last-ditch effort to maintain their residency. Legislation, it seems, is the last available option for the Cuevases. Go to www.aroundthecapitol.com/petitions/petitions.php?id=1005 to sign their petition and help those who have served America for 19 years. SJSU Students Face Deportation
By Rebecca Villaneda, SJSU Spartan Daily Living all but four of his 23 years in America, Dale Cuevas, a business marketing major at San Jose State University, and his family are facing deportation to the Philippines. "I finished my finals in December, like normal, and my parents show me this letter stating we have 70 days to voluntarily depart the U.S.," Cuevas said. Cuevas and his two adult siblings had no idea they were facing deportation - their parents kept the situation to themselves in hopes of becoming citizens. "I felt like the world was coming down on me," he said. Still, Cuevas shared his story with local papers such as the San Francisco Chronicle and the San Jose Mercury News, and it proved to help his family's case. Their lawyer, Carl Shusterman, said through the media buzz someone in Senator Dianne Feinstein's northern California offices must have heard about the family and informed the senator. Feinstein is now reviewing the Cuevas case and is considering introducing a private bill which, if passed, will grant the family permanent residency in the United States. "In my impression, she (Feinstein) would not have expressed interest if it was not possible to pass the bill," Shusterman said. Ron Luk, a staff assistant in Feinstein's San Francisco office, said there was nothing to comment on regarding the case. "It is an issue that our staff is aware of and working on," he said. Shusterman said Feinstein's people contacted him last week to express their interest. "They said they would get back to me by the end of this week with an answer, whether the senator will introduce the private bill," he said. In the meantime Cuevas and his sister Dominique, 19, a nursing major at SJSU, both said they are going about their days normally and are just waiting to see the outcome. "At first I was in shock. I was crying all the time and tried to find comfort in my family and friends," Dominique said. "But now that the news has settled, all I can do is hope for the best and wait." A similar case involving deportation was recently resolved with a family from Los Angeles who were also Shusterman's clients. The Cabrera family proved extreme hardship because the children would have been separated from their parents, and Feinstein intervened with a private bill, granting the family permanent residence. Shusterman said the reason they were able to qualify for hardship was that a member of the family needed to have a green card or be a citizen. In their case, the Cabrera children were born in the United States. "Unfortunately, none of the Cuevas' have a green card or are U.S. citizens," Shusterman said. One of these three qualifications must be met for a suspension of deportation: proving seven years of continuous physical presence, good moral character and extreme hardship proven, said Shusterman. "I think mainly the situation here is the kids," Shusterman said. "Their parents didn't tell them their situation for all these years." Dominique said they would be sent to Mindanao, which she said is a corrupt part of the Philippines. "I have only seen pictures and have cousins that go in summers to visit, that's all I know," she said. Cuevas is keeping busy contacting other media outlets to tell his family's story because he said the public's support will help their case. "Through all of this, I've learned the value of friendship," he said. "The support of people, some that I don't even know, has meant more to me than anything."
 Homepage:: http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/petitions/petitions.php?id=1021
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I support the Cuevas family's request for their immigration status to be legalized. They have been here for nineteen years. During those years, the parents worked hard to provide their kids a good home,and excellent education.The Cuevases actively participate in school functions and various marathons to support Cancer survivors. For grammar and highschool , the children were not a burden to the Public School Education System, they wentto private schools. For college, the Cuevas children did not avail of any financial assistance. The parents work hard and the children took partime jobs to help out.It would be extremely hard for the Cuevas children to go to a place they hardly know. In their hearts, they are Americans.The Cabreras and the Buendias have been granted the Private Bill. I am hopeful Senator Feinstein will sponsor a bill for the Cuevases to stay. It would be disheartening to the many many supporters this family has gotten. There are millions of undocumented immigrants who have not made any effort to legalize their stay. This family has covered all resources, with a great deal of expensesin the process. Would have they been better off not trying at all?
Lourdes Campos
 e-mail:: lhcamp1008@yahoo.com
The Cuevases have lived in America basically their whole lives. To take away their home, lifestyle, friends, and access to a community they've grown to be a part of is irresponsible and hurtful. I went to a forum for the family and the support that the East Bay community has offered is amazing. I hope everything works out for them and they can look past the ignorance that they may come across. America is in the heart. Stay strong.
cj
I have been following the details on the Cuevas Deportation. No one has the right to tell them to go home and be deported without knowing the facts. This family should be issued a Private Bill to live permanently here in the United States. They have lived here for 19 years, worked hard, paid their taxes, have not availed of any federal or state benefits and most important of all they have spent time, money and a lot of effort to legalize their status. Their children are productive and educated. Their behavior should be rewarded and set as an example to the millions of other undoctumented immigrants who are in hiding.
SF
e-mail:: susan_fran@hotmail.com
In my opinion, the Cuevas family has earned the right and the privilege to stay in this country as lawful permanent residents.They are contributing members to our community. They are no burden to America.
Ignorance is no excuse. No one should pass judgement on the Cuevases or any person for that matter.
The Cuevases have gained nationwide support.I hope they find consolation from the thousands of kind hearts and overlook the insensitive,the unfeeling and the miserably selfish people.
tmg
As a community, we should all be able to help one another.Wishing deportation on the Cuevas family is viscious and brutal.
The Cuevases have lived in this country for 19 years.In their hearts, they are Americans.
I hope this family's immigration status will be legalized.
jp
I say America is compassionate. Americans have hearts.To wish deportation on a family who has practically lived almost all their lives in this country is so not American.
The Cuevas family deserves their American dream.Ihope Senator Feinstein and other legislators will be able to assist them with this predicament.
FH
I cannot begin to imagine how this family is holding up and have the strength to come forward inspite the obstacles. Most of all it's beyond anyones imagination how they will continue to live a life that they've never known and have not known for years if they will be sent home. I hope Senator Feinstein will fight to give this family their legal status to stay here in the United States.
YMH
I have attended meetings focused on the Cuevas family's problem with immigration. They have had a lawyer who worked on their caes for years. That means time, hard work, and money, a great amount of money.Given I am one of the Cuevases, I cannot envision, that after all these years,the lawyer has accomplished nothing, but deportation.
It is not sufficient one has a lawyer, one has to find a damned good one.
I feel for the Cuevases. Hopefully,Senator Feinstein will draft a private bill for the Cuevas family.
zb
The support the Cuevas family has gotten since they went public with their plight with immigration is remarkably amazing.
The Cuevas parents have worked hard for their children.The young Cuevases will soon be taxpayers ,contributing members to our community.
To maliciously abuse this family by wishing them deportation is embarrassing to us good Americans.
I hope this family will have their immigration problem resolved, so they can go on with their lives.The waiting must be extremely stressful.
Ihope Senator Feinstein will grant this family a private bill.
kn
Sending the Cuevas kids to a place they barely know is horrible. That would be just like telling any American kid to stop being American.
bjc
I AM VERY HOPEFUL THAT WITH ALL THE HARD WORK THE CUEVASES HAVE PUT OUT TO STAY LEGALLY IN AMERICA, SENATOR FEINSTEIN WILL HAVE THE COMPASSION TO DRAFT THIS FAMILY A PRIVATE BILL.
BP
The Cuevases have exhausted all possible means in the process of legalizing their stay in America.
I have always believed that things happen for a reason.The attorney who had worked on their case for several years, unfortunately,was unsuccessful.
Senator Feinstein has the power to give them the chance to live their American dream.
To the Cuevases, am praying for you. Keep the faith.
ica
I hope the Cuevas family will get the assistance they desperately need from Senator Feinstein. They had wasted several years of hard work financing the process of legalizing their status in America.
gc
Who was the lawyer?Worked on their case for "several" years,seeking for assylum. No wonder, he/she led them to deportation.Whoever recommended them to this attorney is obviously nota friend.Do the people of our area a huge favor,make him/her known to the public.
I can safely make an assumption, this lawyer must have guaranteed them their green card. For what other reason they chose to dish out more $$$$ is incomprehensible.
I hope things work out for the Cuevas family.
tha
The Cuevases have many supporters. This family's critical situation with immigration has drawn so much sympathy from people beyond the east bay area.Anyone who has followed their case would wish nothing but that they will find a resolution soon. I hope they will be drafted a private bill by Senator Feinstein.
lpd
.The massive support this family has should get them their status legalized. They are good people.
greg hobbs
I have great faith in the kind & the good citizens of our state.A great majority of us have demonstrated support in
the Cuevas family's immigration problem.I hope our legislators will be as compassionate & supportive.
d.nelson
I hope to see this family get what they deserve.Obviously, America is life to them. They have put so much of themselves to get the message across.All of us who are supporting this family listen & yes, we hear them...& we support them. I hope those who have the power to help this family will do the same.
t.santucci
Waiting for Senator Feinstein's decision regarding this family's fate has drawn more sympathy toward the Cuevases.I
hope this family will be drafted a private bill.They have been in this country for several years,and have worked hard for everything they have.
gg
I have read the article on the Cuevases' rally of March 4th.The response from Senator Feinstein' office in San Francisco is distressing.There may be many similar situations, however,am hopeful Senator Feinstein will place significance on the effort, time, money that this family has considerably spent trying to legalize their immigration status.Furthermore,the Cuevases do qualify for suspension of deportation.They have the years, they are good contributing members to our community,&to be removed from the only place they have known as home is absolutely heartless.This family had the option to be in hiding like millions of undocumented immigrants. I admire this family's courage coming forward knowing their lives could drastically change. Ihope the Cuevas family will find a truly compassionate&sympathetic person in power who would be wiiling to assist them in this plight with immigration.
mac
The message the Cuevases got from Senator Feinstein's office was not only disappointing to the family but to the thousands of supporters as well.This family is impressibly determined to achieve their goal, it may be a long shot to many,but the Cuevases have family, friends,& nationwide support.Every single supporter is looking out for this family.And we are not giving up on America.More power to the voice of the people.
mailyn c.
Sometimes one has to try being in another person's shoes before one realizes ,how it feels to urgently need assistance & be denied, particularly, if one is in the verge of being stripped of friends, family, culture, and the one place he/she has known as home.The response Senator Feinstein's representative from her San Francisco office was extremely disappointing to many.
There are thosands of us who feel for this family.
I hope this family will find the assistance they urgently need.
shainna g.
in my humble opinion, committing 2 wrongs don't make a right. if you step back and examine the situation here, there are a series of repeated unlawful occurences.
applying for a tourist visa:
if you've ever applied for a tourist visa, you'll know first hand how difficult it is to obtain approval. because the U.S. immigration expects you to return once you have toured the country, hence "tourist". one way they do this is to ensure that you as a filipino are wealthy, have property, investments, etc. and have "clear" reason to return to the philippines. apparently, the cuevas parents were wealthy enough to pass this qualification. being granted this priviledge also means you understand the laws and abide by them.
expired visa:
when your stay has been exhausted, you must return and comply with the agreement upon being granted the tourist visa. if you refuse to abide by the law, then you are simply taking advantage of the U.S. legal system. this is corruption and a crime that can drag family members as accessories to this crime, whether they are aware or not. it is a risk that some may take, but it is a responsibility you must accept if you are caught. the further you ignore the law, the worst you put you and your family members in.
citizenship:
upon applying for a job in the U.S. or obtaining a loan to enroll in state universities, the furnishing of one's immigration documents are almost always required. for as long as the children have continued to educate and familiarize themseleves in the U.S., it is hard to believe that they are unaware of their immigration status.
therefore, breaking the laws and agreements that were established for the interests of society is hardly the american way.
ang nakakahiya pa diyan...mukhang pilipino at iniiwasan pa ang pagkapilino. what's up with that? no pride in being filipino or bisaya? using mindanao as an excuse not to return to the philippines can be a hurtfull message to our own kababayans everywhere. if the cuevas family were granted in the first place for a tourist visa, i am sure they are wealthy enough to relocate anywhere in any of the hundreds of islands in the philippines; cebu, mindoro, luzon, leyte, samar, etc. - take your pick.
think about it. imagine that, a filipino family that has demonstrating that they can beat the U.S. system by obtaining a tourist visa (temporary stay), changing their mind to become a citizen, and when denied, hide (TNT tago-ng-tago) for as long as one could. in the meantime, while other filipinos who work the system legitimately wait for years before being granted... what kind of negative message does this send to filipinos and other immigrants from other countries if the cuevas family are approved to stay?
filipino american
Quoting from the article "they have contributed to our community for 19 years" How did the Cuevas contributed to this community? 1st, they are not legal to be in this country and 2nd; they don't have legal documents to stay here!!! So how were they contributing to this community?
“Committing 2 wrongs don't make a right. If you step back and examine the situation here, there are a series of repeated unlawful occurrences”.
“Applying for a tourist visa:
If you've ever applied for a tourist visa, you'll know first hand how difficult it is to obtain approval. Because the U.S. immigration expects you to return once you have toured the country, hence "tourist". One way they do this is to ensure that you as a applicant are wealthy, have property, investments, etc. and have "clear" reason to return to the your country”.
Apparently, the Cuevas parents were wealthy enough to pass this qualification. Being granted this privilege also means you understand the laws and abide by them.
“Expired visa:
When your stay has been exhausted, you must return and comply with the agreement upon being granted the tourist visa. If you refuse to abide by the law, then you are simply taking advantage of the U.S. legal system. This is corruption and a crime that can drag family members as accessories to this crime, whether they are aware or not. It is a risk that some may take, but it is a responsibility you must accept if you are caught. The further you ignore the law, the worst you put you and your family members in”.
The Cuevas got caught and what is the reason for the U.S. immigration to grant them the privilege to stay.
“Citizenship/Resident:
Upon applying for a job in the U.S. or obtaining a loan to enroll in state universities, the furnishing of one's immigration documents are almost always required. For as long as the children have continued to educate and familiarize themselves in the U.S., it is hard to believe that they are unaware of their immigration status”.
Perjury is a CRIME.
“Therefore, breaking the laws and agreements that were established for the interests of society is hardly the American way”.
In my opinion:
While it is unfortunate that the Cuevas are being disciplined harshly for what they've done, precedents cannot be set showing a soft side! If they were allowed to stay, than any illegal immigrant who has been hiding in the US can claim a right to stay in the US for protection. Asylum is very rarely granted, even to high profile fugitives. We are not all bleeding heart liberals. While all these people may even be productive contributors (I don't know how that is...FAKE SSN#) to society, it takes away from those who have spent time and money to become US citizens/residents the hard legal way. Also what happens when something bad happens to these people? We pay for it... California gripes about 8.25% sales tax and for the median income person in the US, about 15-20% income tax. If we were a nice friendly socialist state, we could expect taxes to EXCEED 60%.... services cost money, bottom line, life is hard and it sucks. Yes, we should stand by our fellow man but this is not the way. The Cuevas just made it harder for other Filipinos and other immigrants to come to U.S.
JM/Asian American
Everyone is entitled to an opinion. We may not share the same views. We may not rally or support the same cause, but we can certainly respect one another's opinion by being non-judgmental.
Passing judgment on the Cuevases is vicious and cruel. Making false accusations regarding the Cuevases' attitudes and behavior in terms of certain issues is extremely wrong and hateful. For example, it was never written that the Cuevas family had acquired their social security numbers illegally. These types of assumptions are speculative.
I have high respect for the law. The Cuevases did commit a wrongful act overstaying their tourist visa, but they are not proclaiming their innocence.
The Cuevas family came to the U.S. as tourists. Wealth and riches are no prerequisites for a tourist visa. My parents have come to visit a few times. I provided them with an affidavit of support.
The Cuevases have valid reason to be concerned about their children's safety, if they go back to the Philippines, particularly Mindanao. They have family in Mindanao; it's understandable, that they prefer to stay close to family. True, they can relocate, however, no matter what part of the country they choose to go, the children will still face the same risks of getting kidnapped or harmed. The Cuevas children don't speak their parents' native tongue. I go home to visit every year. Each time I leave for the Philippines, my co-workers (Filipinos/non-Filipinos) always tell me to be careful. My children know not to speak English in public places. One has to keep up with Philippine news and be there physically to comprehend these safety issues are existent and real.
The Cuevas children migrated to this country at a very young age; all three were under five years of age. One may maliciously choose to perceive their determination to stay in America as a declaration of being ashamed of being Filipino, but those of us who understand genuinely feel for the Cuevas children. Removing them from the one place they call home, friends, culture, and life itself is heartless. I know the Cuevas children are proud of their Filipino heritage, but nobody can take away their inherent American essence.
The Cuevases had the option to work and get paid under the table and evade the tax system. They did not do that and they do in fact pay taxes. They had the choice to remain in hiding like millions of other undocumented immigrants. Instead, they have invested several years of time, effort, and money in the attempt to legalize their status. After everything failed, they sought legislative assistance. This family is risking their American dream by coming forward.
The Cuevases contribute to their community by actively participating in various functions. They run marathons to support cancer survivors. They are involved in fundraising for their parish. They contribute to the American economy by paying taxes, being homeowners, and not availing to any state benefit programs (i.e. welfare and financial aid).
They have made the choice to come forward. Some may choose to support them while others have chosen to scrutinize. Impressively, this family has garnered nationwide backing because their supporters understand that they came here to provide a better future for their children. I have signed their petition. I hope new readers will join the over 2500 supporters of the Cuevas family.
FILIPINO-AMERICAN
I have been a supporter of the Cuevases since I heard of their situation with immigration.Reading these various comments on this website makes me even more determined to offer whatever assistance I can possibly give to this family.The parents were wrong keeping their children in the dark. I am a parent and I totally understand. As parents, we want what is best for our children. Am absolutely sure their hearts were in the right place.
jaimee h.
I have been closely following this family's critical situation with immigration.
I choose to support rather than judge them. I choose kindheartness over hostility,compassion over indifference,forgiving over callousness, empathy over coldness.
I hope things will work out for the Cuevas family.
julia s.
As i'm reading through these comments, I sadly become conscious of some hardhearted and unfeeling remarks.
I totally support this family.I have signed the ongoing petition on their behalf. I hope the Cuevases will be given permission to stay.
PGM
I am a third generation German American. I am familiar with the Cuevas problem with immigration and I chose to support this family. It is very unfortunate that a Filipino American chooses to dwell in the negative, unimportant and the inhumane. More power to the Cuevases.
R.S. Sayler
In my humble opinion, it definitely takes an open mind and a big heart to understand and support the Cuevas situation. For several years,this family has been through so much in their earnest effort to resolve their immigration status. I agree they are contributing members to our community. They'd be worthy recipients of a green card.
A negative speculation as to how people would react in response to the Cuevases being granted permanent residency has come up on this website. Personally, I would be very very happy for them.
The keyword is" ATTITUDE". For some, wishing good upon others come easy. While others choose to miserably gripe about what the rest of civilization would think or say.
Attitude is who you are and how you relate to others.............................
C. Shekore
The support this family has is remarkable. The website petition has close to 2600 signatures.They have sponshorship from reputable organizations, civic rights leaders,government officials,members of the clergy,university student councils,and residents all over our nation.
The Cuevases have my support.I have signed the "Around the Capitol Petition". I am hopeful this family will be granted permanent residency.
m.n.b.
I support the Cuevas family.They have done far far more good than bad.They are basically the type of people I hope we welcome to be citizens of our country.
Dana B.
The Cuevas family ,after nineteen years in this country should be given their green card. They contribute to American economy. They are taxpayers and homeowners. America is home to them.
I hope our elected officials will have the good heart and the compassion to assist this family with their problem with immigration
lyndah johnson
The ongoing petition on behalf of the Cuevas family has received over 2600 signatures.I totally support this family.They wrongfully overstayed their tourist visa, but they have worked so very hard, spent hard earned money on trying to legalize their status.They have come forward for legislative assistance. They had the easier choice to go in hiding like millions of undocumented immigrants.And they didn't.
Stop the Cuevas deportation.Show some compassion!!!!!!!!!!!
b.h.f.
"You're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't"....I feel for the Cuevas family. They have put so much of everything they have with the attempt to resolve their situation with immigration.I would still want to have faith in our governmental officials. They absolutely have the ability and the capability to help.I hope this family will get the assistance they need with their immigration problem.
patricia skaggs
I honestly believe the Cuevases deserve at least one kindhearted and compassionate government official.This family is overwhelmingly supported by the good citizens of America. These officials who this family has asked to assist them with their immigration problem were elected by the people. We have put our faith in them to represent us in the Senate/Congress.The Cuevas family urgently needs one elected official to assist them.He/she has the power to help this family. I remain very hopeful the voice of the Cuevas supporters will be heard.
Helen D.
Recently, an article regarding the Cuevases clearly states, Senator Feinstein has drafted five private bills , the reason she can no longer offer this family assistance.Initially, when the Cuevases came forward, I recall Senator Feinstein was being mentioned as one official in power who is known to be humanitarian. Apparently,she has helped three Mexican families in the past few months. The Cuevas family and their supporters were all hopeful Senator Feinstein would be able to assist, particularly, because it took several weeks of assessing and reviewing. Time has been the one considerably significant factor. This family could not afford to lose those several weeks.Unfortunately, they did.
I along w/ the many many supporters of this family will keep praying and fighting for the Cuevas family to be saved from deportation.
T. McCabe
I am one of the many supporters of this family, I have signed the petition on their behalf. Like many others I was confident Senator Feinstein would help this family.
Today I came across an article on the website stating the Cuevases have run out of time.After many weeks of waiting for a response from Senator Feinstein,they were advised to look to other elected officials,because the Senator has drafted 5 private bills .It is difficult for me to comprehend why this family wasted so much time, time that they barely have, when in fact, the Senator obviously could no longer give them the assistance she gave the other 5 families.
It is so sad how we take other peoples' lives for granted.I say to the Cuevases,don't give up, we'll keep praying for a resolution to your problem.
brenda h.
In response to the above comment, I believe the Cuevases were just as hopeful as everyone else that Senator Feinstein would draft legislation on their behalf. The response they got stating the Senator had assisted five other families in the recent past ,therefore would not be in a position to do the same for them was unanticipated. The Cuevases and their supporters were hopeful for a positive response considering the Senator was reviewing their case for weeks. Am absolutely sure if the Cuevases had known, they would not have wasted their time waiting to be turned down.
Ther is another ongoing petition addressed to Senator Boxer and Congressman Stark. I have signed and emailed to my friends and family.I hope this family will find the assistance they need.
LCH
Why is it so difficult for people to obtain help from our elected officials. The Cuevas family may be undcumented residents, hence are unable to vote. Th several supporters who have been rallying for this family toward a resolution to their immigration problem are citizens of this country.
What we have to say, how we feel, and what we are all doing to help the Cuevases should bear a clear message that we welcome the Cuevases to this country.
Y.G.H.
The Cuevas family facing deportation is an eye opener to many citizens of this country. This family has taken risk coming forward, has spent so much of their hard earned money in the attempt to legalize their status.They are in a great deal of stress trying every potential means that they deem workable. They have nationwide support.We all believe the Cuevases do not deserve to get deported.And yet, to this day,the Cuevas family's situation remains unresolved.
I find it so difficult to believe that immigration and our legislative system choose to punish the ones who are trying to do the right thing.I would not be surprised if the thousands of undocumented immigrants in our state would choose to remain in hiding.
No one would want to subject themselves to the extremely difficult,nerve wrecking and financially draining situation that leads to deportation.
James V.
I am a supporter of the Cuevas family. They are good and productive members of our community. If they get deported it will unquestionably be not their loss but America's.
To the Cuevases, I know that wherever this leads you , you will find happiness , because you deserve the best. Good things await you, because you are good people.
T.S.
America has always been known to be the land of opportunity, justice, fairness, equality and compassion.We certainly don't see that in the case with the Cuevas family. They have wrongfully overstayed their visa, but they have proven to be productive and stable.They do not deserve to get deported.
I wish this family the best. America may not appreciate their productivity and loyalty but I am positive the Cuevases will find a better place that will.
A.B.Lav
Senator Boxer's response regarding the Cuevas family is clearly a refusal to help. The government officials do not appreciate the Cuevases' positive contributions to America. In my opinion, there is no looking outside of the box at all.The ongoing petition to Senator Feinstein received over 2600 signatures. Another one was recently initiated to Senator Boxer, this received over 400. The loyal supporters of the Cuevas family are wasting their time. These officials have no intention to help. We shall keep this in mind.
To the Cuevases, you will find a resolution to your problem.I support you, because I believe you are truly good people.
Marsha P.
The voice of many supporters of the Cuevas family are not heard. The media attention ,lobbying politicians have not accomplished anything to assist this family. The nineteen years in this country,their contribution to California community,and to American economy are obviously not being considered to be of any significance.The years of multiple attempts to legalize their immigration status involving much money,effort,time,anxiety,and stress don't matter.The Cuevas family has done everything humanly possible, all they can hope and pray for is a miracle.
Penny F.
I believe good things will happen to the Cuevases. They may not have gotten what they were working extremely hard for the past few months, but things will work out for them.They have been through a great deal of emotional,mental,and physical stress and financial burden during this whole process of trying to obtain permanent residency.I truly feel for this family, mostly for the parents.
yvette s.
I am relieved for the Cuevases. They have been granted a ninety day extension.This is the first streak of luck they have had in the several years,related to their plight with immigration.Their misfortune ,I strongly believe began with their lawyer. If they had a good lawyer, they would not be in this predicament.They had missed out on a few significant options in the process. The lawyer has caused them major problems,expenses, stress,and deportation.I will continue to pray for them especially the parents, who have brought their kids to our country ,worked really hard to provide them a good life.
C.M.
They broke the law ! Send them back.
Robert
I would very much like to see justice done to the Cuevases. I understand they did break the law, by overstaying their tourist visa. They have done a great deal of good to our community and to the American economy. I say , they definitely do not deserve deportation. If anything , they have earned the right to be lawful permanent residents.In my opinion and the thousands of their supporters, the Cuevases are the kind of residents we ought to welcome in our country.Keep the faith.
Melanie
I support the Cuevas family's campaign to stay. The Cuevases have gained an overwhelmingly massive support and all because their supporters appreciate their productivity,hard work,determination, and their good heart.
To the Cuevases, you are blessed, there are remarkably very very few who have chosen to judge and scrutinize. Let us all keep in mind, we all try to be perfect, but no one is flawless...
ANNE
THEY BROKE THE LAW, BUT THEY DO NOT DESERVE TO GET DEPORTED.
MICHAEL
I respect individual opinion.The Cuevases did break the law, but in my opinion, they are far more respectable than the person who has chosen to mock and insult this family by signing the petition as "mickey mouse". Now, I realize the Cuevases'problem is minimal,this person is troubled. He needs help.
K.B.
I have heard good things about the Cuevases' lawyer, J. Lyons. They should have had this lawyer a decade ago when they started working on legalizing their stay in this country.I am absolutely sure they would have avoided the financial and emotional stress that they have been through. And they would not be facing deportation.
B.B
I have been closely following the Cuevas family's problem with immigration.I did notice MICKEY MOUSE had signed the petition on behalf of the Cuevases.I totally agree, this person has to be mentally unstable to play a prank on this family. To the Cevases, just overlook the ignorance of the very few. Am certain you appreciate the sincere effort of your many supporters in the east bay area & even beyond.
I will keep praying for this family.
Pat
The Cuevases have drawn nationwide support.This family has not only drawn sympathy from thousands but trust,& respect as well.It is unjust & unfair for this family to be deported.
Terence H.
I completely agree, this family should not get deported.They have made an honest effort,and have risked a great deal of everything they have worked for the past nineteen years by making their problem with immigration public.It would be fair to say the Cuevases deserve their green card.
Abbey
I came to this country from the Philippines in 1968 when I was four and my sister two. Even though we were not born here, America is our home. We have two other sisters and a brother who were born here. Fortunately my parents took the legal route and became citizens in 1974. I couldn't fathom how I would handle it if I was sent back after 19 years in this country. Just like the Cuevas children I don't speak the language of my birthplace. They are finishing their education and becoming productive members of society. What a nightmare! What if all the children not born in this country were sent back after 19 years. We shouldn't punish the Cuevas children for their parents' mistakes!!!
Mary Ann Thomas (nee Bonifacio)
THE ONLY MISTAKE THE CUEVAS PARENTS MADE WAS THEIR CHOICE OF LEGAL COUNSEL. SHE GAVE THEM BAD ADVICE. SHE WAS INCOMPETENT AND NON-PROFICIENT.
THE CUEVAS PARENTS SPENT A GREAT DEAL OF MONEY AND TIME DURING THE WHOLE LEGAL PROCESS.AM SURE THEY HAVE BEEN OFFERED WITH OPTIONS THAT WOULD HAVE CONSIDERABLY CUT BACK ON EXPENSES AND TIME WITH GETTING THEIR GREEN CARD. THEY CHOSE TO DO THINGS THE HONEST, LEGITIMATE WAY.I MOST CERTAINLY RESPECT THEM FOR THAT.
I HAVE SYMPATHY FOR THE CUEVAS CHILDREN AM POSITIVE THAT EVEN IF THEIR PARENTS FAILED THEM ,THEY APPRECIATE THEIR PARENTS AND VALUES THEM FOR ALL THEIR EFFORT AND HARD WORK DURING THE WHOLE STRESSFUL PROCESS.THE CUEVAS CHILDREN UNDERSTAND THEIR PARENTS' PRIORITY IS WHAT IS BEST FOR THEIR THREE CHILDREN.
MERLENE
In my opinion, the Cuevas parents are being penalized for their multiple years of attempting resolving their immigration situation.I feel for the children. To me, the parents have done everything within their means to achieve a resolution to their ongoing problem. They may have made bad choices and decisions, but their intentions were good.Accusing the parents for punishing the kids is so wrong and extremely unfair.
J.D.
The Cuevas situation, I feel, has not been given fair and just consideration. They broke the law, hence they have to suffer the consequence. I used to have more confidence and regard for our country's system,that situations are individually assessed and carefully deliberated upon prior to handing out punitive measures.
The Cuevases have most definitely made several years, have contributed to our community& to American economy. They are not a burden or a threat to our country.
This family had every intention of legalizing their status, has spent much money ,effort, & time focused toward the same cause.
The Cuevas family should not be deported.
tessa
I was in no way blaming the parents for the predicament. "Mistakes" was not what I meant. The parents made bad "decisions" in their quest to find legal status. I also believe they had good intentions and it's because they undoubtedly love their kids so much that they have been fighting their fight. And yes, I agree they were given bad counsel. That should be taken in consideration in ceasing their deportation. Power to this family. We Americans are not all heartless. They may have agreed to give up the fight in order to stay until June but they shouldn't give up the hope!
Mary Ann
I am happy the Cuevas family got their ninety day extension. I hope and pray for a miracle,because at this point, we need a miracle for legislative assistance to intervene. The Cuevas children worked so hard in their campaign to stay. This family had overwhelmingly gained support not only in the east bay area but nationwide as well.It is remarkably hard to believe that the voice of the people supporting this family has not been heard.I believe the Cuevases have not given up hope,they are so strong in their faith. They have high hopes for richer,brighter,and more productive future America or no America.Life goes on.God will take care of this family. The Cuevases are kindhearted, trusting,sincere, and unselfish.
Delia
This family has shown so much courage and sincerity in the various attempts to legalize their immigration status.They have the years of being productive and stable in our country. This family has come forward asking for help resolving their problem with immigration.
What does this family and their supporters have to do to move legislators to compassion ?
The Cuevases broke the law, but they do not deserve to be deported!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marlon
The first time I heard about the Cuevas family was in the early part of this year. I just got back , I am so disappointed the Cuevases have had no success with legislative assistance. I clearly recall Senator Feinstein was reviewing their case. I anticipated a resolution would be in place by this time. I cannot believe they didn't get assistance from Senator Feinstein. I was confident they would, this family does not only have nationwide support, they are good potentials for citizenship in our country.
The other five families are very fortunate they were drafted legislation.I understand they are difficult to pass,nonetheless, the other families have the luxury of time, precious time.Time to be in this country long enough, to resolve their status.The Cuevases certainly deserve more than the ninety day extension.The other five families will have access to future possibilities toward American citizenship, the Cuevases don't.
I will certainly continue to support and pray for this family.
Randy
America has chosen to punish the Cuevases. It is highly unjust. The Cuevas family has no choice but depart.I don't want to be a part of this unfair, harsh, unfeeling and insensitive side of my country.
To the Cuevases, I am sorry!!!
Adena
The Cuevases may be undocumented immigrants, but they are truly American. This family risked losing their dream by coming forward. They have put up a good fight with immigration determined not to give up on their dream.
I feel for this family.Their sincere effort should be recognized and appreciated.
Kathy
I hope the Cuevas family will continue to fight to stay in this country. I have read about other families who have recently been given their green card. They have not been in America as long as the Cuevases. And like the Cuevases, none of them is a permanent resident.So,what makes these other families' immigration issues so uniquely different from the Cuevas situation, that they were given their green card as opposed to being deported?
Joseph
Immigration laws are extremely difficult to comprehend. I have only now realized that the only reason for this is because our system is unfair, unjust and harsh , mostly to the people who don't deserve to be penalized.It is so sad that the hardworking like the Cuevas family after trying to resolve their immigration problem winds up being removed from our country.I have read about the Democrats potential reforms with immigration laws.The ones who will benefit will be the undocumented who have learned from the Cuevases situation...the genuine effort, the expense, the stress will only cost you your American dream. So, why even bother...
Nadine
I have read about the projected Democrats immigration reforms. "Solve Act" will grant amnesty to those undocumented present in the U.s. May 4th. Initially, this really lifted up the Cuevases' spirit and their supporters, only to be disappointed once again after learning, they have to be physically present in America when it passes Congress.
In my opinion, the immigration reforms will only be of assistance to the millions of undocumented who are in hiding. What the Cuevas family has gone through in their effort to legalize their status and where they are at this point in time "deportation" has encouraged the other millions to just wait for immigration reforms. I can honestly say I cannot blame them. Why subject themselves to stress, expense, rejection, and eventually, deportation, when obviously, the sincere genuine effort and many many years of hard earned savings spent by the Cuevases toward a resolution did not accomplish them anything????
I hope the Democrats "Solve Act" will address these issues . The Cuevas family is one, am sure of the many unfairly, unjustly, and harshly penalized.They do not desrve to be removed, they have an outstanding history of paying taxes, they are homeowners, above all, they are productive contributing members of our community and our economy.
Susie
It is so sad that the ones who truly deserve to be relieved of our unfair and harsh immigration laws will no longer have an opportunity to avail of the Democrats' Solve Act. I am in complete agreement with some of the comments on this website. Our legislators ought to address these concerns. If this goes on unaddressed, the Cuevas family made a huge mistake spending money, time and effort for the whole process. They should have done what millions of illegals are doing,remain in hiding or even evade paying taxes. The Cuevases are very much American as any American , they pay taxes , they are homeowners, and they have worked hard for nineteen years to get to where they are @ this point...the ultimate and the unresolvable end...because even if they took the risk, no legislator had the heart to offer them assistance.
The Democrats' Solve Act will finally resolve the millions of undocumented , but NOT the Cuevases, who as we all know, deserve it most.
I believe the Cuevas family will have good things in life or even better, they are truly good people. I only wish America had appreciated their sincerity, honesty, productivity and their good hearts.
ROSE
I KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT THE CUEVAS FAMILY'S SITUATION WITH IMMIGRATION. IT IS HIGHLY DISTRESSING TO REALIZE THAT IN THEIR CASE WITH IMMIGRATION, SPENDING ALL THEIR NINETEEN YEARS OF HARD WORK TOWARD A RESOLUTION AND BEING GOOD, CONTRIBUTING RESIDENTS ARE CLEARLY INSIGNIFICANT.
THE OTHER MILLIONS, AM POSITIVE, HAVE LEARNED A LESSON FROM THIS FAMILY.
TONI
The way I see it, the Cuevases would have been better off if they did what millions of undocumented are doing...NOTHING!!!!!!!!!
g.j.
I TOTALLY AGREE...THE CUEVAS FAMILY SHOULD HAVE TAKEN THE EASIER, SAFER ROUTE TOWARD CITIZENSHIP @ NO COST WHATSOEVER...THAT IS........ DO NOTHING!!!!!!!!!
T.Y.
The Cuevas family's situation with immigration has most definitely drawn so much sympathy and support. I am hopeful that if and when reforms related to immigration laws will be in place, the Cuevases, will somehow be able to benefit from it, be it a waiver of the ten year bar or even better be given amnesty considering they are still in our country @ this time,May, 2004!!!
Shelly
Those undocumented residents who have heard about the Cuevas misfortune know what to do....don't do what they did.And by doing so, they will have a better chance at resolving their immigration status.
The Cuevases who worked hard for nineteen years,investing effort, time and money ,even took risks in the process clearly deserving to be given permanent residency are being removed .
It is ironical that the lesson learned from the Cuevas situation is ...doing right in trying to resolve immigration problems does not give you a green card ,on the other hand, hiding, evading paying taxes, until legislators come up with immigration reforms will.
The lawmakers should keep the Cuevas situation in mind.They have sadly chosen to punish them and they clearly don't deserve it!!The one thing they have earned is amnesty!!
Sandy
m.p.
THE CUEVASES WERE DENIED LEGISLATION. OTHER FAMILIES IN SIMILAR SITUATIONS WITH EVEN LESS NUMBER OF YEARS IN AMERICA WERE GRANTED SPONSORSHIP BY SENATOR FEINSTEIN. THE REASON WAS PRIVATE BILLS ARE DIFFICULT TO PASS CONGRESS. WE ALL UNDERSTAND TIME IS THE PRIME FACTOR. THE FAMILIES WHO LEGISLATORS HAVE CHOSEN TO HELP, WILL HAVE THE TIME TO RESOLVE THEIR IMMIGRATION SITUATION...THEY WILL BE ABLE TO AVAIL OF THE IMMIGRATION REFORMS THAT ARE BEING PROJECTED IN THE NEAR FUTURE.LEGISLATION HAS GIVEN THESE FAMILIES THE GIFT OF TIME, THAT THE CUEVAS FAMILY WILL NO LONGER HAVE, BUT DESERVE.
THE CUEVAS FAMILY HAS BEEN UNFAIRLY AND UNJUSTLY TREATED!!!
V.B.M.
I can truly relate with the Cuevas family. My family migrated to this country in the 70,s . If I were in the same predicament as the Cuevases , I would be terrified and devastated. I have my friends, my family, my life is in America. I can honestly say I feel what they must be going through.
The Cuevases do not desrve to be deported. They, most certainly, are wrongly penalized.
Minda
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