Japanese in gay marriage struggles for green card

[AsahinaKimi]

Japanese in gay marriage struggles for green card
U.S. laws stifle 10-year partner's attempt to get spousal visa
Kyodo

NEW YORK — At first glance, their life together seems ideal. Rie and Dianne (who have asked that their real names not be used) have a home overlooking a lush garden in a small, caring community.

But Rie is Japanese, and even though she and Dianne are legally married in their state, a federal law prohibits her from obtaining a spousal green card. And so their 10 years together have been overshadowed by a struggle to keep Rie in the country.

"I've done everything I can. If it comes to the point of deportation, I guess I will just have to go. But to have to leave your family thinking you cannot come back is awful," said Rie.

The couple spoke at their East Coast home the day before her student visa was set to expire.

Dianne found the timing ironic. "It's July 4, Independence Day, and here I am an American. . . . Where is my 'liberty and pursuit of happiness' when the next day my partner is counting down to deportation?"

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