In December, airports worldwide echo with laughter and tears as families reunite after years apart. Yet, for many immigrants, the season also brings bittersweet reminders of separation and bureaucratic hurdles. The month holds a special significance for many in the world of immigration. It’s a month often associated with family, festivities, and travel, but for immigrants, it can also be a time of heightened challenges, nostalgic memories, and, sometimes, hopeful transitions. Here are some fascinating insights and stories that reflect the role December plays in the lives of immigrants.
- Family Reunions and the Travel Crunch
December is one of the busiest travel months worldwide, and for immigrants, it often represents a chance to reunite with family members. However, for those awaiting visa approvals or caught in the maze of complex paperwork, plans can be uncertain. Many immigrants who’ve waited years to bring their families to their new home countries find that December highlights the importance of these reunions—and reminds them of the struggles they’ve endured to make them happen.
In many U.S. airports, you’ll see scenes of tearful reunions and joyful embraces as families and friends meet after months or even years apart. But the holidays can also remind immigrants of the painful reality that not everyone gets to reunite when they hope. Immigration attorneys and advocates often report a rise in inquiries during this month as people seek advice on speeding up processes or navigating the logistics of holiday visits, especially after extended separations due to travel bans and other restrictions.
- The History of Immigration Policy in December
Some significant changes in U.S. immigration policy have historically taken effect in December. For example, in December 2005, the REAL ID Act, which impacted on the requirements for driver’s licenses and other forms of identification, was signed into law. The act also had implications for asylum seekers and family-based immigration petitions. This December timeline highlights how important legislation, and policy can impact immigrants’ lives during the holiday season.
On a more positive note, December has also seen the passing of policies meant to protect immigrant communities. In 2012, for example, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was introduced and subsequently expanded in December, providing protection and work permits to undocumented youth brought to the U.S. as children. Programs like these have brought relief and opportunities, helping individuals pursue their dreams, often rekindling hope in a season dedicated to family and gratitude.
- Heartwarming December Stories
For many immigrants, December is a month of firsts—first holidays in a new country, first snowfall experiences, or first celebrations of traditions from their new homeland. This blending of traditions often creates beautiful, memorable stories.
Take, for example, the story of Sara, a recent immigrant from Colombia, who celebrated her first Christmas in New York. Used to the warm weather and vibrant colors of Colombian Christmas traditions, Sara was surprised by the chilly winter and the sight of snow. She adapted by incorporating some Colombian holiday foods like natilla (a custard dessert) and buñuelos (cheese fritters) into her new celebrations, sharing them with her neighbors and creating a unique cultural exchange.
Or consider the story of Arjun, an immigrant from India, who attended his first Hanukkah celebration in December with friends he made after moving to Chicago. Although Hanukkah was new to him, he embraced the celebration, learning about the menorah lighting and trying traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot. In return, he shared some of his own cultural traditions from India’s winter festivals, making for a memorable cultural exchange.
- December and Legal Deadlines
December is often the last chance to complete certain immigration filings for the year. Some immigrants rush to file applications for green cards, work permits, or extensions before year-end deadlines, hoping to avoid policy changes in the upcoming year. Immigration attorneys and law offices often see a spike in appointments as families and individuals seek to resolve their cases before the holiday season or prepare for the new year.
For those seeking asylum or waiting for court hearings, December can be both a hopeful and challenging month. Although it’s a season for slowing down and focusing on family, legal cases don’t always pause, and families might spend holidays apart as they await important decisions. Despite the delays and uncertainty, many immigrants approach these situations with patience and perseverance, holding onto hope as they move into the new year.
- Blending Traditions and Embracing Community
In the spirit of celebration, many immigrants blend their native traditions with those of their new country. Whether it’s hosting a holiday potluck with dishes from around the world or participating in community events, immigrants often enrich holiday celebrations with diversity and inclusivity. This blending of cultures enhances December festivities, creating a season of learning, sharing, and understanding across communities.
For immigrants, December is often a bittersweet mix of nostalgia, challenges, and hope. While they may miss familiar customs or loved ones left behind, many immigrants also experience December as a season of growth, resilience, and connection. And while policy changes and paperwork can be frustrating, there’s always the possibility that the new year will bring progress and positive developments.
As December arrives, it serves as a time of reflection for immigrants and native-born citizens alike, highlighting the shared value of family, tradition, and unity across borders.