Crossing Borders and Sharing Humanity

I represented our Congregational Office of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation in Alamo, Rio Grande Valley, Texas USA, participating in 'Crossing Borders / Sharing Humanity', an event promoted by the Stuart Center for Mission, Leadership Educational and Technology of the Religions of the Sacred Heart with the support of The Mexican American Catholic College (MACC).

Representatives from about 15 organizations met together for 7 days and participated in presentations, discussion, exhibitions, and lived experiences with ARISE with the aim of highlighting the main causes and effects of migration and human trafficking, and focusing on the construction of alternative solutions marked by human dignity, justice and the defense of human rights, in the search of a more dignified life for migrants and those affected by trafficking.

For me they were days of great blessing.  To feel, see, and hear the testimonies of those who have migrated to the US looking for a decent life or fleeing violence, visit their houses, go to the border and observe the walls, and be in the shelters and organizations that support those who live in constant vulnerability was really challenging. The challenges here are also in our own countries.  These range from problems with being received, to integrating, to high vulnerability for exploitation.  We concluded by publicly asking that the human rights of all people who migrate be respected, because these rights cover all human beings.

It is worth mentioning that ARISE is a program that works with families to strengthen their communities. Located in four cities in South Texas, each ARISE center responds to the specific needs of the community. ARISE's mission is to help communities help residents identify life goals and provide resources to help them achieve those goals for themselves. ARISE is co-sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Central South and the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of Houston.

Written by Sr. Katty Huanuco, CCVI