A few years back, my partner and I embarked on a nine-day business trip to Italy. Our children stayed back in the U.S. with relatives and indulged in all sorts of fun, from swimming in lakes to enjoying sleepovers and candy galore.
After immersing ourselves in culture, savoring wine, and engaging in grown-up discussions, I found myself yearning to return home. I longed for the chance to kiss my kids, embrace them tightly, and listen to their sweet, albeit sometimes whiny, chatter about their adventures.
However, a series of travel complications meant we spent an unexpected night at a hotel near Newark Airport instead of reuniting with our kids. As I sat in that airport, tears streamed down my face. I missed the comfort of home, and the thought of one more night apart felt unbearable.
This was just one night. Can you imagine the pain of being separated from your child for months or even years? I, for one, cannot.
Unfortunately, countless families face this unbearable reality—not merely due to a delayed flight, but because of walls, metal barriers, and armed border patrol agents. Many families immigrate to the U.S. or remain in the country without proper documentation due to various circumstances. In some cases, children are brought to the U.S. without legal paperwork, while others have family members who lack legal status even when the rest of the family does.
When Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) discovers an undocumented individual, deportation may follow, leading to heartbreaking separations. Regardless of differing opinions on immigration policy, these are profound human stories. This is not just about laws; it’s about compassion.
Thanks to the efforts of Border Angels, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for human rights, the emergency door in the wall separating San Diego, California, from Tijuana, Mexico, is opened once a year. Families can embrace, converse, and connect for a brief moment, thanks to this organization’s commitment.
Border Angels hosts several events at Friendship Park, including a special Children’s Day. Traditionally, volunteers have brought toys and cupcakes for the children affected by immigration challenges. Since 2013, Border Angels successfully lobbied to have the door in the wall opened on this day, allowing families a precious few minutes together.
According to Carlos Martinez, the executive director of Border Angels, they aim to spread the message that “love knows no borders.” They also seek to highlight the negative impacts of current immigration laws, advocating for more humane policies.
“Imagine someone in Washington, regardless of their political affiliation, witnessing a child hugging her father for the first time and saying, ‘We need humane immigration policies,’” Martinez expressed.
However, Border Angels’ humanitarian efforts extend beyond just this one day. With the support of thousands of volunteers, they work year-round, engaging in community education programs and providing essential resources such as food, legal assistance, and water along migrant crossing routes. Their dedication is unwavering, demonstrating that love transcends borders.
“Only love will overcome hate,” Martinez stated, “Yes, we can.”
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In summary, the work being done by Border Angels is a testament to the resilience of human connection in the face of adversity. Their efforts remind us that behind every immigration policy are families just longing to be together.