Take a sneak peek inside into life on the Texas-Mexico border… and those who dare to cross it in hopes to pursue the “American Dream.”
American Dream Not Quite Reality
For Priscilla Aguero and Jose Loredo, the American dream has yet to be achieved. As a young man, Loredo made his way through the harsh elements of the Mexican desert and across the Rio Grande to get into the United States. Now, his family struggles with the fear he may be deported at any given moment due to his undocumented citizenship status.
Long Wait Brings Focus to Restrictions
Vanessa Loredo tells the story of her father, Jose Loredo’s cousin, who chose a different route by applying for citizenship. After a few years, he was granted naturalization, but for everyone else in his family, the process continues to this day. Loredo and experts speak about the restrictions and the role they play in seeking citizenship.
Crossing over illegally comes with a high price. An American woman and Jose Loredo speak about coyotes, commonly known as human smugglers, and the price paid financially, emotionally, and sometimes mortally, to make it into America.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is a separate agency from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. With two agencies covering the same region and similar issues, confusion exists regarding jurisdiction and deportations. Syracuse University conducted a survey that highlighted this confusion and furthermore, revealed an error in the criminal charges involving Mexican immigrants.
Violence in Cuidad Juarez, Mexico, has many believing asylum is being sought across the border. Citizens said there is no major threat, as they speak about progression. While the city is still under reconstruction, citizens speak about why some citizens may emigrate, and why some chose to stay.
Sarah Self-Walbrick contributed to the editing and layout of this story.
About Lucinda Holt
