Day 3: Perseverance

Today was a day filled with eye-opening experiences and memories. We started off with a naturalization ceremony, filled with about 112 new American citizens. We were privileged enough to watch these new citizens through their new journey — with the help of Judge Strickland— accepting their U.S. Citizenships with wholehearted joy and happiness. Additionally, we were lucky enough to hear stories from Señor Carillo about his experience immigrating through the harsh conditions of the border, inspiring new immigrants to persevere through their future experiences as a new American citizen. 



After a life-changing morning, we headed to Matteo's for some Mexican Food (P.S. they are moving to California so follow their instagram @matteosmexicanfood!) We all highly recommend their variety of agua frescas especially the blue ocean. We all are happily contended and eating extremely well here in Las Cruces.

Our happy faces post lunch:)

Lastly, we listened to Dr. Natividad— a professor from the University of New Mexico State— demonstrating to us the history of immigration policy and law. He was able to enlighten us on the pattern of Eugenics throughout immigration history and its connection to Social Darwinism. Three significant policies— Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, Johnson- Reed Act, and Immigration Nationality Act of 1965— connects to contemporary issues of immigration, especially the spike of immigrants around 9-11. We are all so thankful to have been able to talk and interview Dr. Natividad for our documentaries. 


All the activities that we did today connected to one common theme: perseverance. The people we were able to talk to today either described or demonstrated how courage and resilience is key when navigating the struggles of the immigration system. We have learned so much from this opportunity and are excited to continue broadening our horizons in the coming days. 

Signing off,
Trey and Mitali








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