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Viral Video Sparks Debate Over the American Dream of a Moroccan Migrant

Viral Video Sparks Debate Over the American Dream of a Moroccan Migrant
Saturday 09 December 2023 - 12:03 Journalists: Dakir Madiha
Zoom

A candid border interview with a young Moroccan man has sparked controversy online regarding immigration to the U.S. The video, shared by American journalist Ali Bradley, features 20-year-old Oussama expressing his hopeful desire to start a new life in New York, even if it means doing so illegally.

Oussama paid smugglers $7,000 for passage but was unaware of the legal asylum processes. When questioned about whether he cared that Americans funded the border systems he exploited, he simply smiled and focused solely on his goal. His idealistic view of America, influenced by music icons like Michael Jackson and Nirvana from a young age, overlooks the harsh realities faced by those who cross the border without permission.

Although Oussama claimed to respect American rules, Bradley pointed out that unlawful entry violates them. Oussama expressed his willingness to work and pay taxes, asserting that his first illegal act would be his last. However, the journalist countered, noting that America already has an abundance of unemployed migrant laborers sleeping on the streets.

Interestingly, none in Oussama's group were aware of the CBP One App, which grants legal entry through ports of entry in Mexico. This lack of knowledge highlights the increasing "irregular" migrant flows, driven by international crises that attract opportunists to America, regardless of whether they meet asylum criteria.

The thought-provoking exchange has ignited a heated online debate. While Oussama remains undeterred, simply thanking President Biden, many Americans perceive a flawed system hemorrhaging resources to those who circumvent lawful pathways. As the crisis worsens, could this viral video reshape attitudes toward finding a balance between compassion and controlled, contributory immigration?

 


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