This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Yes, I am part of an ethnic minority and a refugee. I can't blame anyone because I was born a refugee in my own country. When I was granted refugee status, it was my first time I could believe in dreams.

I heard that America is a land of opportunity, especially for the young generation. It is true maybe for some people.

After I landed in Utah, my dream land, I was asked to look for employment. Believe me, I have never attended school, never learned alphabets, and don't know how to read my mother language. I have never had a paying job. The first secret you may not know is that I don't remember my real name, neither my birth date. I can't understand even simple instruction.

After a few days at work, I was sent home by force. I am asked to explain why I can't keep a job. A few years later, I wasn't qualified for Medicaid. I still cannot sleep well for I have nightmares from the atrocities and killings I witnessed.

The only vocabulary and system I know is survival.

Without a job and Medicaid, my American dream will forever be pending.

Suavis Kanyange

Magna