Moving to a new country can be a thrilling experience. That first year in the U.S., where you are surrounded by so many new customs and unique ways of celebrating, can seem overwhelming, too. There are many new opportunities and discoveries to be a part of in your new country. At the same time, it also comes with its own challenges.
Many of those challenges become more evident during the holiday season. For immigrants, being away from loved ones and familiar traditions can make the holidays feel lonely and isolating.
Our legal team at Odunlami Law Firm wants you to know we are here for you. During this time of the year, we know that you may have questions, concerns, and unique needs. Reach out to us now for any help you need, including celebrating holiday immigration traditions to help with immigration law.
5 Ways Immigrants Can Keep Holiday Traditions Alive
Embrace Both Cultures
How do you find your way forward in a new world where so many differences exist from what you are used to, especially during the holidays? It is a complex period, and it can be hard to move away from what you have always done.
A better option could be to embrace both cultures instead. Take the time now to learn a bit about the traditions within the community you live in now. Find out how various holidays are celebrated and what people expect from each other, such as neighbors or co-workers, and learn as much as you can about why people do what they do. It can be fascinating to explore these new topics.
Then, consider exploring how you can incorporate your own culture into your new country. As a Green Card attorney, our team has seen many instances in which families create new traditions that meld old and new together, allowing them to celebrate the best of both worlds in a new way.
Consider a few simple ways you can do that with these tips. You may find that this is an exciting way to learn about and be a part of your new country while also maintaining the traditions that are important to you.
Find Ingredients for Traditional Dishes
Food is one of the most important components of many holiday celebrations, and it can be one of the pivotal ways you celebrate the holidays this year. You are in a new area, but you may still be able to find many of the unique and special ingredients that are important to you that are traditional.
One of the benefits of the digital world is that if you cannot find something locally available to you, you can often find it available in a nearby community or even online. This can allow you to maintain all of your favorite foods from your past and perhaps even share these traditions with the new friends and neighbors you have, allowing them to learn a bit more about your culture.
Incorporate Familiar Rituals
Connect with Your Community
Whether it is your local community where you live now, a religious organization you are a part of, the local school community, or even your community overseas, there are many ways to be a part of each one this year. Learn about how your local community celebrates the holidays here. Find a way to be a part of it that fits within your goals.
Then, remain a part of your old community as well. You can often video call family members or exchange letters overseas. Find ways to contribute simple photos to family members. The key is to celebrate community in a way that is meaningful to you and each person.
Share Your Traditions
Another one of the incredible resources that is a part of life in the U.S. is the willingness and even passion for embracing what is unique about each person. When you feel comfortable about doing so, take the time to share your traditions with your community, your neighbors, and your new family members. Let them know what you do to celebrate the holidays and, when possible, why you do it.
As a nationwide immigration law firm, our attorneys have seen and supported many people from around the world. Those who celebrate their uniqueness, traditions, and culture are often the happiest.
Let our New Jersey Immigration law firm be there for you throughout this process. We wish you a very special and happy holiday with your family and loved ones. We look forward to learning more about how you celebrate the holidays and just how meaningful these traditions are for you. Know that we are happy to be a part of your journey.
We can help you reach your American dream and help you obtain your green card.
If you have any additional questions about immigration or are looking for immigration services, don’t hesitate to contact the Odunlami Law Firm at 973-993-1900 or support@odunlamilaw.com.
Areas of Immigration Law:
- Naturalization (Citizenship) Application
- Immigrant Relative Petitions
- Fiancé Visa Applications
- Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing
- Criminal Consequences and Deportation Defense
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Application
- Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
- Green Card Renewals
- Temporary Work Visas
- Temporary Protected Status
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
- Waivers
- Deportation
