Immigration is a sensitive topic in our nation currently, but particularly for our students. A majority of our students are first-generation college students and also first-generation Americans. Their parents often immigrate here from Mexico.
Every summer for the past 10 years, our students have joined the Viatorians (one of our endorsing communities) on a journey to the Mexican-American border in southern Arizona. Here, the students walk the paths of immigrants coming into the US and learn about their various journeys.
Since many of our students have parents or family members who have personally experienced this journey, this trip is often reflective and tangible for them to see what the border-crossing process entails.
“A specific moment where I felt hope was when I visited La Casa de la Misericordia. We were touring around the place and, through a window, saw a lot of kids taking Yoga classes. It was relieving to see all those children who had been through so much still had that spark in their eyes. Hearing the news that La Casa has the Escuelika, where the children are educated, truly caused warmth in my heart, especially coming from a high school and family that values education and sees education as an opportunity,” said Yeili, a recent CRSM graduate and recipient of the Spirit of St. Martin award.
For many of our students, this often sparks a desire for advocacy for the immigrant community. Monse, another recent CRSM graduate, reflected upon her experience:
“I now understand that spreading the goodness of God means more than prayer; it means stepping up for justice, especially in moments of uncertainty. I feel called to speak out, to fight for dignity and fairness, and to ensure that we never forget where we come from. We are the future, and we must not stay silent. We all carry fears, but we can’t let those fears stop us from doing what is right. We are more blessed than we realize, and we must use our voices to uplift others. The world is hurting more than ever, but through faith and action, we can be part of the healing now.”