Raised as an American, Juan Diego Mazuera Arias discovers his true identity

• Latino Grew Up Believing He Was a Citizen and Faced a Harsh Reality
• This Happened When He Applied to College
• Here Are the Details

Juan Diego Mazuera Arias, a young man of Colombian origin, spent most of his life in North Carolina believing he was a U.S. citizen.

However, upon reaching adolescence and beginning his college application process, he discovered a truth that would change his perspective on his identity and future.

Since arriving in the United States at just eight months old, Juan Diego was raised with the belief that he fully belonged to the country.

His parents taught him that if anyone asked about his origins, he should say he was American.

«I grew up thinking this was my home, that I belonged here. I never understood why my parents asked me to avoid talking about my Colombian roots,» he shared in an interview with La Noticia.

Latino Believed He Was a Citizen and Faced a Harsh Reality

Today we highlight #CHCIFELLOW Juan Diego Mazuera Arias!

Learn More about Juan By Visiting Our Website: https://t.co/xz6ihfykna#Immigration #Immigrationpolly #Latinos pic.twitter.com/iy2nnyq2q2

– CHCI (@chci) May 11, 2021

Throughout his childhood and teenage years, Juan Diego led a life similar to his schoolmates, unaware of the legal barriers that awaited him.

However, everything changed when he began applying to college, and his parents revealed that his immigration status was not regularized.

When he applied to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he encountered an unexpected obstacle—he was ineligible for in-state tuition or state scholarships due to his immigration status.

«It was heartbreaking. I had worked hard academically, but I realized the system didn’t see me the same as my peers,» he lamented.

Fortunately, in 2012, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program gave him an opportunity.

Implemented by former President Barack Obama, the program allowed Juan Diego and thousands of young immigrants to obtain work permits and temporary protection from deportation.

Although DACA did not provide a path to citizenship, it offered him relief amid uncertainty.

Overcoming Barriers and Helping His Community

Despite the challenges, Juan Diego did not give up. He applied again for a scholarship and was awarded the Golden Door Scholar, which enabled him to finance his education at Queen’s University.

Later, he earned a Master’s degree in Management and Social Impact from New York University (NYU).

Driven by his own experience, he became involved in advocating for Latino rights and participating in political campaigns.

«I set out to use my voice to show what immigrants are capable of achieving,» he affirmed.

Juan Diego Mazuera Arias Continues Fighting for Immigration Reform

@jdmazuera Here’s Goodbye to a Loving, Fun, and Challenging 2024♬ Original Sound – Capcutverse

Today, Juan Diego remains committed to fighting for immigration reform that would bring stability to individuals in his situation.

Although he cannot vote, he actively participates in social initiatives, seeking to inspire other young people to persevere despite obstacles.

As reported by La Prensa Gráfica, he emphasized:

«I don’t do this just for myself, but for our community. I hope to see more Latinos in public office in the future, making decisions that benefit everyone.»

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