By: Natalie Greene
When Matilde met Thomas, an African American Army veteran and nurse visiting her home country of Colombia, she had no idea she was stepping into a love story that would span continents, cultures, and generations. In 2004, she moved to Houston, leaving behind everything familiar for a blended family, a new language, and an entirely different way of life.
The transition was daunting. When she first arrived in the United States, Matilde spoke very little English and often felt out of place in a new culture. Within a couple of years, she became a mother to two sons — adding the joys and responsibilities of parenthood to an already challenging adjustment. She now faced the task of raising boys who would grow up as both African American and Colombian in a country where being young, male, and Black can carry heavy societal challenges. At the same time, she embraced her role as a stepmother, welcoming her husband’s older daughter from a previous marriage into her heart and, later, celebrating the joy of three grandchildren.
RELATED: The Time Is Now: Houston Area Women Taking Charge of Their Citizenship Journeys
But Matilde knew she needed to expand her circle outside of the comfort of her husband and children. She enrolled in English classes, joined community programs, and began surrounding herself with like-minded women — many of them immigrants — who were also chasing the American dream. In these circles, she found not only friendship, but also encouragement, accountability, and inspiration to keep pushing forward.
Her determination paid off. Matilde became the general manager of a thriving party store, turning her hard work into independence and stability for her family. And in 2018, she took her biggest step yet: becoming a U.S. citizen.
“When I earned my citizenship, I felt like I was part of a group of people who have the same right to vote and the privilege to make changes in the United States like any other American citizen, and that fact alone is significant,” she shared.
RELATED: Hopeful ‘New Americans’ Find Support Through Groundbreaking Partnerships in Greater Houston
Why Citizenship Matters — Especially Now
In Harris County alone, more than 300,000 lawful permanent residents are eligible to become U.S. citizens, according to the “Naturalize Now, Houston!” campaign — a public-private partnership between the City of Houston, Harris County, National Partnership for New Americans (NPNA), Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative (HILSC), and other nonprofit organizations. Yet many hesitate to take the final step, held back by fear, uncertainty, or reluctance to let go of their native country. For Matilde, that hesitation is understandable, but she believes now is the time to act.
“This is a must-have,” she said. “Without it, it can be difficult to even achieve anything within this country. But most important of all, every four years, you can vote for the outcome of what you want this country to become.”
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship:
- Your Voice Counts — Only citizens can vote in federal elections, shaping laws and leaders who impact your daily life.
- Protection From Deportation — Citizenship secures your right to stay in the U.S., no matter the political climate.
- Family Reunification — Citizens can petition to bring family members to the U.S. more quickly.
- Job & Education Opportunities — Certain jobs, scholarships, and benefits are only available to U.S. citizens.
- Travel Freedom — A U.S. passport opens doors to easier travel and consular protection abroad.
Your Path to Citizenship Starts Now
Resources and tools are available to help you every step of the way:
- Take free citizenship preparation classes — Learn the test material, practice English, and build confidence.
- Join local community organizations — Connect with people who have gone through the process and can guide you.
- Get help with your application — Find assistance with forms, fees, and legal questions.
- Learn your rights — Understand how citizenship protects you and your family.
For more information, visit BecomeACitizenToday.com — your one-stop hub for resources, checklists, and local events that can help you make the journey from permanent resident to proud U.S. citizen.
