Immigration Court Observing: Day One Before

I have volunteered to attend court proceedings in an immigration court where judges decide the future status of so many human beings desperately seeking an escape from their own beloved but conquered country to another more peaceful and sustaining life.

Before I even enter the building, I’m reduced to tears and questioning if I can really do this. A young girl maybe 5 or 6, has flung herself onto her father’s leg, desperately weeping and fearfully begging “papa papa”.

I turn away rapidly, facing the two of the other observers who immediately reassure ME, I got this, I can handle this.

Can I? My mind flashes back on all the clips people have recorded of the immense cruelty and violence of masked men when attacking unarmed womyn, children, and men in the name of tRump’s immigration policy backed by the fuckin Supreme Court – clips I cannot witness, actions that enrage and break my heart.

I keep my back turned, as I gather my strength to proceed through the glass doors into the ‘beautiful’ modern building where so much suffering is contained.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More Blog Posts

PEE, COKE, AND VIDEO

My RRB has already been peed on, had a cup of coffee or soda thrown onto the “Mujeres Creciendo La Paz” side so far this trip. But at least my windshield is in tact as are all 6 of my tires. So maybe MAGA’s violence has diminished.

Read More »

ENCOUNTERING THE MAGA OTHER

I have my first lengthy discussion this morning as I’m preparing to get on the road again. As I walk to the bathroom and back again, I notice a friendly-appearing older white man watching me. When I get into my truck, he walks by the driver’s side, still smiling affably, continues down the sidewalk and then returns.

I can’t immediately tell if he’s a shallow salesperson-friendly or a genuine friendly.

Read More »

SILENCE IS not GOLDEN

I’m too tired from my early morning awakening, my fuel hose repair task, and the past few days preparing – always challenging getting ready for a prolonged road trip – to drive for very long. I try to drive until at least dusk to take the temperature of those traveling north along my beaten path.

I realize I was expecting some kind of strong reaction one way or the other

Read More »