Brought to the United States as an 11-month-old infant, Ricardo grew up fully immersed in American life—excelling in school, playing jazz, joining JROTC, and internalizing the country's core ideals. It was only while planning a high school trip that Ricardo discovered his undocumented status. Despite this barrier, Ricardo worked multiple jobs to put himself through college, met his wife, and raised a family. In 2009, an immigration raid led to his detention and eventual release without transportation, forcing Ricardo to wear an ankle monitor during his studies. Ricardo eventually gained legal work authorization and relief through Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in 2010, consistently renewing his standing for years while building a career, buying a home, and raising three children.

His stability unravelled when political shifts targeted the TPS program for cancellation, leaving Ricardo unable to work and trapped in legal uncertainty. In September, after being called into an ICE office, Ricardo was temporarily detained for deportation to a nation Ricardo has no memory of, escaping immediate removal only through his attorney's intervention regarding a pending green card application. Now stripped of his ability to legally provide for his family and living under constant surveillance, Ricardo faces the daily fear of forced removal from the only home Ricardo has ever known. Refusing to succumb to efforts to force him out, Ricardo continues to advocate for his right to remain in the country that holds his family, history, and identity.