caged liberty's Journal, 05 July 2008

Today was a symbolic day for me.

Today I passed my Michigan Drivers Test. Not a big deal for almost everyone and not such a big sounding deal considering I have been driving on and off since 1988.

But today I achieved a symbol of freedom. When I arrived in Michigan the weather wasn't the best so I delayed getting my licence. When I decided to apply I discovered that Michigan had banned everyone but American citizens and Green card holders from obtaining a licence.

This meant that I was not allowed to drive. I had to stay cooped up at home and rely on my husband to run errands, get groceries, anything. Six whole months of not leaving my home unless my hubby was willing to take me out. The reason why I probably gained all my weight.

This is how I got my name caged liberty. I felt that my rights were being caged by such discrimination.

I went through so much screening and processing just to get a visa to get into the country. I have lived here since 1992 and have not so much as had a speeding ticket or fine.

I joined a campaign group to fight the discrimination against law abiding legal immigrants such as myself. I dont know how much, if any impact my telephone calls to the Governor of Michigan or the Secretary of State had but the law was changed. I would like to believe that I played a part in that turnaround.

Never take your liberties for granted because even something as simple as driving can become a privilege for the chosen few.

So today I received acknowledgment that fighting for your rights is important and it can work. Today, I dont feel so caged anymore and I am ready to start soaring in the skies of liberty.