By Jenny Lozano
Food on the table and a roof over your head is something to be treasured, however when was the last time you showed appreciation to what you have? As a Hispanic who was born and raised near the border, my eyes have surely witnessed the sacrifice and devotion within every immigrant that I have encountered. The articles and news that surface through the web are quick to mention the crime that occurs within this border yet fail to emphasize on the American dream that every immigrant family so much yearn for.
It has been brought to my attention that the governor of Texas recently imposed a fundraising campaign in hopes to fulfill his border wall project. This unfortunately grew concern among the Hispanic and Latino population within Texas. Because of this, I went ahead and interviewed my aunt who is currently living in Laredo, Texas. Here is what she had to say:
What are your thoughts on the border wall project?
“I am sure that those who want to strive for a better future in the United States will find a way somehow. The wall will not stop anyone. People will eventually find a way to enter the United States to fulfill their dreams.”
What does immigration mean to you?
“Immigration to me means seeking opportunity.”
How has immigration affected and influenced you as a teacher and as a citizen of Laredo?
“As a teacher and as a citizen, immigration has affected us in many ways. We are expected to have an increase of students in our classrooms. Us teachers find ourselves having to strategize just to find a way to teach them proficiently. As a citizen on the other hand, stash houses are commonly seen throughout the city. For those who may not be aware of what a stash house is, it is when smugglers house migrants until they can be relocated illegally. It has affected us citizens of Laredo in ways where our daily lives our compromised and has overall been a problem for the law enforcement. Unfortunately, we have not seen any changes.
Would you say immigration has affected the lives of your students? If so, in what way(s)?
“Immigration has affected the lives of our students in a sense that they must adapt and integrate our new customs. It has affected students culturally, educational, and mentally due to the difficult circumstances. Many students have had to leave family members behind. It has been exceedingly difficult for them.”
Based on this quick interview, it can be concluded that the lives of these students and citizens of Laredo are highly experiencing various stress factors. It is saddening to admit that this wall project influences their overall well-being. What I took from my aunt’s responses, were that these students who are not from the United States are encountering difficulties in their academics. Comfort, security, and safety all factor into their well-being. The lack of these elements has led many to feel distressed. What captivated me the most out of this interview is that I was informed that these teachers continue to go out of their way to teach in both English and Spanish to help these students succeed. Overall, the structure and function that a teacher as well as a citizen of Laredo plays a significant role within children and families who are considered immigrants.
To those reading this blog, what is your take on this situation? Do you think the citizens of Laredo should act on this by signing petitions? As for the education of these young adults, is the education system doing its job?
Below are a few photos of what a person can see when living near the border.
All are captured by my mother.
This photo reveals two border patrol agents passing through the bridge that separates Laredo, Texas from Nuevo Laredo. Below that bridge is Rio Grande (Big River). The river that separates Laredo from Mexico.
This second photo shows the view of when you are about to cross over to Mexico.
The link to where the wall project is mentioned:
https://www.texastribune.org/2021/06/23/texas-border-wall-donations/
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