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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Friday, June 7, 2013

Just One Person


Have you ever thought “I am JUST one person, I don’t matter”. “My one vote won’t make a difference”.  “My one comment to someone won’t matter”.         What if it did?

Think about the Visa Interviewing Officer at the Moscow Embassy.  One person had the ability to shut down an international goodwill effort affecting hundreds of people with his few words: “You are denied”.  Yes, EVERY Person sure can make a difference!

Now we just need to find that ONE person who will say, “There IS a way for Sasha’s Journey to continue and here it is….”


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2 comments:

  1. chazdesimoneJune 7, 2013 at 10:13 PM

    I think if every "just one person" who reads your blog would write a letter, it would make a difference. I would suggest that in your blog, with address and such to send it to. You never know who is willing until you put it out there. I'm writing one tomorrow.

    ReplyDelete
  2. TinaJune 7, 2013 at 10:42 PM

    One person to write to might be: Mr. Bistransky, Director of Non-Immigrant Visas.
    Email to: consulmo@state.gov


    There must be one person with the "key" to unlocking this door or getting over this hurdle.

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for being part of this Adventure.

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