San Francisco resident on path to citizenship looks forward to getting to vote
With Election Day just around the corner, new American citizens will have the opportunity to vote for the first time.
One man's journey to citizenship is a step closer after waiting for more than 50 years.
Hector Romero came to the United States from Mexico as a child. He's not afraid to share how the decades-long journey to find success, peace, and a comfortable living hasn't been easy.
"I'm not or have been homeless, but I have family who care," said Romero.
Two months ago, the San Francisco resident applied to become a U.S. citizen.
He had been a Green-Card holder, but this year, with the help of the San Francisco Pathways to Citizenship Initiative, he finally decided to take the next step.
"I want to vote and have my vote counted too," said Romero.
Since 2013, the SFPCI has helped more than 11,500 individuals on their journeys to become citizens, including Su Zhen Yu.
"To become a lawful permanent resident and encouraged me to learn English and take the citizenship test," said Yu through an interpreter.
The initiative is a collaboration of nonprofit organizations funded by the city to help make citizenship more accessible and affordable.
Low income applicants, who live, work, or attend school in San Francisco can get help including covering the cost of an application, which amounts to more than $700, often a barrier for many.
"This program gives immigrants a voice whether they've been here many years or recent arrivals and can apply for naturalization," said San Francisco Office of Civic Engagement and Immigrant Affairs Executive Director Jorge Rivas.
"I wish everybody has the opportunity to do this," said Romero.
Romero is waiting for a citizenship interview, one of the last hurdles before a swearing in ceremony he hopes will come before Election Day.
"Right now, I'm getting goosebumps thinking about it now, thinking of being a citizen, welcome to America. It will be a great feeling once and for all," said Rivas.
He has found his footing in this country after more than 50 years. His voice will soon be heard at the ballot box too.
This initiative was established in 2013 by the late Mayor Ed Lee.
Over the next month, the city will host two free workshops to help individuals apply for citizenship and encourage new citizens to register to vote.