Ep 7- After 32 Years in Minnesota, This Immigrant Is Done

After 32 years of attaining his American Dream, raising two kids, and building a successful business in Minnesota, Luis isn’t being deported, he’s choosing to leave the U.S. What worries him the most is the impact the government crackdown on immigrants is having on his 9 year old son, afraid to leave the house or attend school, and who's growing up with hate in his head and fear in his heart.

“I’m not scared. I’m not worried. No, I’m ready. If they catch me, they send me back. I’m ready.”
— Luis, an Ecuadorian Immigrant

Luis carries various documents, including his clean criminal record, papers from Ecuador, and medical records from his disabled son's liver transplants, just in case he’s stopped by ICE agents.

OUR INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

Luis' Journey to the United States

  • Luis introduces himself and mentions he has been in the United States for 32 years but is undocumented.

  • Ted asks about Luis' entry into the United States, and Luis explains he crossed the Mexican border near Phoenix, Arizona, in 1994.

  • Luis paid a coyote $6,000 from Ecuador to cross the border and reach Minneapolis.

Life in the United States and Return to Ecuador

  • Luis discusses his success in achieving a better life in the United States over the past 32 years.

  • Luis expresses his desire to return to Ecuador, citing his longing to see his family, especially his still-alive mother.

  • Ted inquires about Luis' tax-paying status, and Luis explains he has been filing taxes since 1995.

  • Luis shows his criminal record, which includes only a minor offense from 1995 for not having a driver's license.

Documentation and Legal Concerns

  • Luis displays various documents, including his criminal record, papers from Ecuador, and medical records from his disabled son's liver transplants.

  • Luis expresses his readiness to face deportation if caught, emphasizing his willingness to return to Ecuador.

Family and Community Impact

  • Luis talks about his family, including his disabled 22-year-old son and his nine-year-old child.

  • Ted asks about Luis' work, and Luis explains he provides transportation services, similar to Uber.

  • Luis describes the increased presence of ICE and Border Patrol in his neighborhood and the fear it has caused among residents.

  • Luis plans to leave the country in September 2026 and expresses his hope for a better future for his family.

Children's Trauma and Future Concerns

  • Luis discusses the impact of the current situation on his nine-year-old child, who is scared and avoids going outside.

  • Ted and Luis talk about the long-term mental health effects on children growing up in such an environment.

  • Luis expresses concern about his son developing hate towards the government due to the ongoing situation.