A crisis on both sides of the U.S. Mexico | Nightline

Summary

This video script highlights the struggles faced by migrants arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border, focusing on a shelter in southern New Mexico that aids families fleeing violence and hardship. Despite limited resources, the shelter provides critical support for those awaiting asylum, including education for children. It also discusses the impact of controversial policies like Title 42 and 'Remain in Mexico,' which block many from seeking asylum, creating immense challenges for communities and migrants alike. The script portrays the human cost of immigration policies and the resilience of those striving for a better life.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Motel 6 in southern New Mexico serves as a vital shelter for migrant families crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, offering a temporary place to stay despite lacking typical amenities like a pool or room service.
• 😀 A local shelter, Colotis United, operates out of hotels in Deming, New Mexico, to provide refuge for migrants, who often arrive after long and grueling journeys.
• 😀 The issue of immigration in the U.S. is deeply affected by Title 42, a health policy that allows the U.S. to deny asylum requests under the pretext of preventing the spread of COVID-19.
• 😀 Activists argue that Title 42 creates a legal fiction, preventing migrants from exercising their constitutional right to apply for asylum, especially affecting those from countries like Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
• 😀 If Title 42 is lifted, it's estimated that 18,000 migrants could cross into the U.S. per day, significantly increasing the pressure on border towns like Deming.
• 😀 Local officials like Deming's mayor express concerns about the resources available to handle an influx of migrants, highlighting a lack of volunteer support for shelters.
• 😀 While Deming's police chief reports no security issues with migrants, there has been an increase in hostility towards migrants in the area, with some people openly expressing anti-immigrant sentiments.
• 😀 Ariana Saludar, who founded the shelter, faces threats for helping migrants, but remains committed to providing assistance despite the challenges and local opposition.
• 😀 Migrants, such as those from Colombia and other countries, often flee violence and extortion, like in Acapulco, Mexico, where the threat of violence is so severe that it is one of the deadliest cities in the world.
• 😀 In shelters like Yes We Can in Tijuana, migrant children receive free education and essential supplies, emphasizing the importance of education in their journey while they wait for asylum processing.

Q & A

Why is the Motel 6 in southern New Mexico described as a 'godsend' for migrants?

The Motel 6 serves as a pop-up shelter for migrants who have just crossed the Mexican border. Despite its basic amenities and lack of luxury services, it provides essential support such as a safe place to stay, food, and a temporary refuge for those who have been journeying for days without proper nutrition or rest.

What challenges does the small town of Deming face with the influx of migrants?

Deming struggles with limited resources, including a lack of volunteer support and shelter space. The town is grappling with how to handle an increase in arrivals and how to process migrants efficiently while dealing with the strain on local services.

What concerns do local authorities have about the potential end of Title 42?

Local authorities, including Deming's mayor, are concerned that if Title 42 is lifted, there could be a significant surge in migrant arrivals—up to 18,000 per day—posing further strain on the town’s already overburdened resources and volunteer base.

How does Title 42 affect migrants trying to seek asylum in the U.S.?

Title 42, which was implemented as a health policy during the COVID-19 pandemic, allows for the rapid expulsion of migrants to prevent the spread of the virus. Critics argue that it has kept many migrants from exercising their constitutional right to seek asylum in the U.S., particularly those from countries like Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.

What is the 'Remain in Mexico' policy, and how does it impact asylum seekers?

'Remain in Mexico' is a policy that requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases are processed in the U.S. It has been controversial because it forces migrants to stay in dangerous conditions while awaiting their hearings, often blocking them from entering the U.S. to pursue asylum.

What is the role of activists and organizations in helping asylum seekers at the border?

Activists and organizations, such as Colotis United, play a crucial role in providing shelter, food, and support for migrants, many of whom have already submitted asylum requests. They also advocate for the legal rights of migrants, including challenging policies like Title 42 and 'Remain in Mexico' that they believe hinder the asylum process.

How has the community in Deming responded to the increasing number of migrants?

The response in Deming has been mixed. While some community members and local authorities have shown support, there has been a noticeable rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, with some individuals expressing hostility and making threats toward organizations helping migrants.

What are some of the risks migrants face while attempting to cross into the U.S.?

Migrants face numerous dangers during their journey, including extortion, threats, violence, and the harsh environmental conditions along the border. Many are fleeing violence and poverty in their home countries, and the risks associated with their journey to the U.S. border are significant.

How do migrant shelters like the one in Deming assist families?

Migrant shelters in Deming offer basic services like food, shelter, and legal assistance. Additionally, some provide educational support for children, helping them adjust while they await processing of their asylum claims. These shelters help families navigate a complex and often overwhelming system.

What are the major criticisms of U.S. border policies like Title 42 and 'Remain in Mexico'?

Critics argue that these policies undermine the legal rights of asylum seekers, create unsafe living conditions, and contribute to the suffering of vulnerable individuals. Title 42, in particular, is criticized for being a public health measure that disproportionately affects migrants seeking refuge and violates their right to apply for asylum.