All Are Welcome: McKinley's Story

Country of origin?
Haiti

Why did you leave Haiti?
I left my home country because I needed a better life for myself, to be someone in the future.

Did you come to the U.S. by yourself or with family? Did you have family here already?
I came by myself, but I do have a lot of family in the U.S.

What has your journey been like?
When I arrived in NYC, I felt it was the best thing I ever did. But I couldn't speak or write in English.

How did you find out about the Y? How has the Y helped you on your journey?
I found out about Y from a friend of my father. The Y helped me to speak better English, and helped me when I needed it most.

What has been the most difficult part about the transition to a new country?
The most difficult part is speaking English and feeling part of the country.

What do you miss most about Haiti?
The food, my family, and my friends.

What do you like most about NYC?
They give me a lot of opportunities to be the person I want to be.

What are you most looking forward to now?
I’m looking for a college to learn how to become a physical therapist.

Is there anything you’d like to say to other new immigrants in NYC?
Go to school and find a job.

Is there anything else that is especially important for us to tell New Yorkers about immigrants and stories like yours?
I just hope they listen to their stories and understand their situation.