BACKGROUND



This Blog is meant to journal the combined experiences of the persons involved in the Sasha Project. Its objective is to strengthen the ties between families, students (several of us teach), friends, and the growing number of persons who want to be part of the JOY which this Sasha Journey is spreading.

In 2004, I (Tina) traveled to Russia to assist with the adoption of my two nephews. Alexander (Sasha) was our interpreter, driver, and so much more. I have kept in touch with him and it has been my dream to let him experience first-hand the typical U.S. life (versus merely his impressions from American TV, movies and music). My initially modest idea blossomed to include eleven other adoptive families who also want to host Sasha and thank him for helping to make their dreams come true.

It will be fun as well as educational for all of us to share Sasha's observations and impressions of his daily travels as this Journey unfolds. There is an intricately choreographed daily itinerary which will take us to visit the Space Shuttle, Golden Gate bridge, Route 66, a Home Depot and other American icons through Sasha's eyes. The flight to L.A. is scheduled to leave Moscow on Saturday, June 15th to begin his six week visit.
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It seems incredible, but the interviewing U.S. Immigrations officer denied Sasha a Tourist visa. He did not see the value in Sasha's trip or understand the desire for the adopting families and children to reunite with Sasha. The officer decided that Sasha was too poor to be allowed even a brief visit to the U.S.

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Tuesday, April 23, 2013

U.S. VISA Refused!


Late last night Sasha made the long journey and flew to Moscow for his required VISA interview at the U.S. Embassy.  None of us ever really considered that he would not be allowed to come visit our families.  We were shocked when Sasha emailed:


Hi Tina,
I'm on the way to the airoport, back to Krasnodar.  I am refused, as I don't have any official work. As they explained - not good economical position... Well,...... Anyway I appreciate the commitment and vigour you has showen in this project, but - alas...
Sasha also could not show assets.  He lives in the family home which his mother owns and he has no savings in the bank.

 This was a turning point in the project.  EMails went out and the brainstorming began ...
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