LibraryScenariosWhen gaining new citizenship feels like betrayal
Scenario

When gaining new citizenship feels like betrayal

I started crying during the citizenship ceremony because becoming American felt like officially abandoning everyone I left behind.

Mira
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Legal belonging in a new place can trigger guilt about those who remained in danger and survivors' guilt about escape.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Grief for lost homeland — diaspora mourning?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.