CHICAGO (WLS) — ABC7 Chicago’s Hispanic Heritage Month special “El Sueño Americano” explores the meaning of the “American Dream” through the lens of Hispanic and Latin communities.

The program delves into the motivations behind their journeys to the United States, the opportunities they’ve found, the challenges they continue to face and the resilience that drives their pursuit of a better future.

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ABC7 anchors Rob Elgas, Tanja Babich and Jaisol Martinez reflect on their family histories and share personal stories of migration across North America. Babich recounts her mother’s experiences growing up in Chile and Panama, while Elgas and Martinez discuss their families’ journeys from Mexico.

From dishwasher to executive chef, Chicagoan José Sosa shares his inspiring journey from Mexico to the United States, highlighting how his dedication and perseverance led to the opening of his own restaurant, The Greggory, in Barrington, Illinois. The segment also features the story of a recently-arrived migrant from Venezuela who now calls Chicago home.

Historian José Acosta Córdova provides a compelling overview of how U.S. foreign policy has influenced immigration patterns throughout the nation’s history. Additionally, Illinois Chamber of Commerce President Lou Sandoval shares his personal connection to this history, describing how his family benefited directly from the Bracero program.

A heartwarming story highlights how the family of ABC7’s Mark Rivera made the journey from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States.