JENNIS PEREZ, CUBA

Jennis Perez was in her fifth year studying law in Cuba when she left her home in Camaguey and headed for the United States. Like centuries of immigrants before her, Perez came to Boston looking for a better life for her and her 7-year-old daughter, Mia. “ I have many big dreams. I would like to have my own business. I would like to see my daughter become a strong and important woman.” Perez traveled for six harrowing months before reaching the US – much of it on foot – much of it at the mercy of smugglers. The 3000-mile land route through Ecuador has been a well-worn route for Cubans. But Jennis was among the final waves admitted into the country under the “wet foot/dry foot” policy. “I hope I can do all my dreams, but I’m scared." Perez said, referencing the current conversations surrounding immigration policy. "I’m an immigrant.” Perez is currently working as a cleaner in office buildings in the Back Bay.