The most diverse generation in American history is redefining the American Dream.

Seventy-seven percent of Americans define the American Dream as the freedom of choice: the ability to be who you want, love who you want, and write your own story. We traveled across the country with the most diverse generation in American history to find out why. Along the way, we heard from Niecee, an African American activist from Dallas creating opportunities for women, and herself, in society; Subhi, a gay Syrian refugee who fled war to find his identity and a sense of belonging in San Francisco; and Emanuelee, a poet giving voice to the hopes and dreams of his Houston community—among others. These are some of their experiences, in their own words.