Legal Immigrant Expresses Frustration with Birth Tourism and Illegal Immigration
Chris Ramsin, a legal immigrant from Trinidad who navigated a nearly decade-long journey to U.S. citizenship, believes that practices such as birth tourism and illegal immigration undermine the efforts of those who adhere to legal immigration processes. Ramsin, a Virginia businessman who immigrated in 2006 and became a citizen in 2015, voiced his concerns in an interview with Fox News Digital.
Ramsin reflected on his experience, stating, “When you see people coming across the border, whether to have a baby for citizenship or to access free healthcare and education, it feels like a slap in the face to those who have worked hard to enter this country legally.”
He noted that unlike undocumented immigrants, he had to meet stringent federal immigration requirements, including proof of vaccinations, personal documents, a criminal background check, and financial verification to demonstrate independence from state assistance.
Personal Reflections on Immigration
The weeks surrounding Independence Day hold special significance for Ramsin, as they mark the anniversary of his arrival in the U.S. in 2006 with just $300 and a few suitcases. He has since established his business, Dominion Custom Upholstery, and has lived in Roanoke for nearly 20 years.
As the nation prepares to celebrate its independence, Ramsin expressed pride in the American flag, recalling a formative experience in Trinidad in 1990 during a coup attempt. He described how the arrival of U.S. soldiers signified safety and support for the local population. Reflecting on this, he stated, “America has stood by many nations over the years, yet it’s disheartening to see both Americans and foreigners express hatred toward the country that offers so much.”
Contributions to Community and Global Aid
Ramsin has expanded his entrepreneurial pursuits by founding Dominion Projects International, an organization dedicated to missionary work in India, Africa, and the Caribbean. The initiative focuses on providing clean drinking water and medical supplies to communities in need. He emphasized that the American dream is rooted in hard work and perseverance—a sentiment he personally embodies.
With each return from overseas missions, Ramsin experiences a profound sense of pride and belonging. “Landing on American soil, whether in Washington, D.C., Miami, or New York, reinforces a feeling of home,” he shared. However, he is troubled by the sentiment expressed by those unhappy with the United States. “If you dislike it here so much, perhaps you should reconsider your presence,” he added.
Support for Immigration Policies
Amid discussions on immigration policies, Ramsin refuted claims that President Trump is anti-immigrant. “The Republican Party isn’t against immigration; we simply believe in following legal procedures.” He criticized the Biden administration’s approach to border management, framing it as an “invasion” rather than a critique of immigration itself.
Acknowledging the emotional toll of narratives surrounding deportation, Ramsin pointed to a long-standing issue of lax enforcement of immigration laws as a contributing factor. “Having come from a third-world country, I understand the desperation that drives people to seek better lives in America,” he remarked. However, he maintains that Trump’s focus on organized immigration is not born out of bias, but from a desire for structural integrity in the system.
Ultimately, Ramsin sees his status as a U.S. citizen as a cherished privilege, implying that immigrants must recognize and respect the legal frameworks in place. “It’s a privilege to be here, not a right,” he concluded.
