My grandparents came through Ellis Island; they had no “documentation.” My father’s father was named Visnavetsky, turned back 3 times & kept trying, then pretended his name was Williamson in hopes it would get him past immigration & it worked. There but for the grace of God go I.

May 26, 2018 · 10:00 PM UTC

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Replying to @marwilliamson
Which part of Poland / Ukraine / Russia?
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Replying to @marwilliamson
Lovely 💙. Great-Great-Grandpa also through Ellis Isl; doubt he had docs as was on the "poor-side" of his fam, his bro had some Island off Madeira named after him. Worked in NY at turn of century 1880s-1900s, before heading West & South. There but for God's grace go I 🕊.
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Replying to @marwilliamson
And they foolishly say, Truth Triumphs???
Replying to @marwilliamson
My grandfather had his name shortened by the immigration agent, who told him it was too long. My family came to escape war. Current events are so distressing, I feel in my DNA what they are enduring, and it breaks my heart (especially the tearing of children from parents)
Replying to @marwilliamson
Well said!
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Replying to @marwilliamson
And a big AMEN to that, Marianne!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Replying to @marwilliamson
Tears, what an inspirational story. Thank you, Marianne! 💝
Replying to @marwilliamson
How long ago was that? You really believe all undocumented are like your family? Surely you don’t.... Surely you don’t think back then drugs were an issue...or gang violence...or hate for America....Different time..different people...different circumstances!
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Replying to @marwilliamson
So many are choosing to forget their families histories. “Choosing sides”, the bigger picture is they are choosing to repeat history. They are being triggered by the trapped emotions from their ancestors they carry. Repeating a pattern they chose to forget.