The framework of American history, past and present, has been carved out by the diverse array of immigrants that have endured the will to sacrifice, struggle and find success in America. Today, it is important to recognize and celebrate the multitude of backgrounds that encapsulate what it means to be an immigrant and create opportunities more inclusive of what we define as the “American Dream.”
In honor of June’s Immigrant History Month, Japanese-American director of “Beasts of No Nation”, Cary Fukunga along with notable celebrities Lupita Nyong’o, Wilmer Valderama, Adepero Oduye, Miguel, and others have come together to produce the #IAmAnImmigrant campaign.
The campaign’s purpose is to raise awareness, celebrate various identity backgrounds, encourage individuals to speak about their experience as immigrants, as well as stand in solidarity with new Americans.
This month and beyond let’s honor the amazing immigrant experiences that make up the world we live in. Whether they were born in another country or owe their citizenship to the relatives who brought them here, take a look at these familiar names that made America their land of opportunity.
1. Lupita Nyong’o
Actress born in Mexico to Kenyan parents and holds dual citizenship from both nations. Nyong’o has voiced her opinion on the relevancy and importance of #IAmAnImmigrant on more than one occasion.
2. Djimon Gaston Hounsou
Model and actor from Cotonou, Benin.
3. Danai Gurira
Actress, playwright and model whose parents came to the United States from Southern Rhodesia.
4. Tony Parker
Professional basketball player for the San Antonio Spurs from Bruges, Belgium.
5. Adepero Oduye
Brooklyn-bred actress born to parents from Nigeria.
6. Stokely Carmichael
Political activist born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
7. Barkhad Abdi
Award-winning actor and director from Mogadishu, Banaadir, Somali.
8. Estelle
British singer, songwriter, record producer and actress from West London, England.
9. Sammy Sosa
Retired professional major league baseball player from the Dominican Republic.
10. Iman
Fashion model, actress and entrepreneur born in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia
11. Rihanna
Singer and songwriter hailing from Saint Michael, Barbados.
12. Wyclef Jean
Rapper, musician and actor born in Haiti.
13. Patrick Ewing
Retired Hall of Fame basketball player from Kingston, Jamaica.
What’s your #IAmAnImmigrant story? Tell us in the comments below.
