Bridging Instead of Barricading

By Shaya Eidson

1/18/25

Immersion Reflection

In the summer of 2024, I had the privilege to travel to Tucson, Arizona, for a week-long immersion to learn more about immigration and the immigration process at the US/Mexico border. While the trip was centered around immigration, we also touched on a variety of different social justice issues, including the injustices of the criminal justice system, environmental injustices, and the destruction of indigenous lands and culture.

As we entered the border city of Nogales, Arizona, I noticed how vibrant and alive it felt. This beautiful city consists of desert landscapes, colorful buildings, and rich Mexican culture. As we moved further into the city, I noticed that something had changed. A large, 30-foot steel barrier cut right through the heart of Nogales. Armed border patrol agents stood there watching us, their presence was heavy and unsettling. I noticed a brother and sister talking, divided by the wall, and passing papers through a small gap. The fear and division I felt entering Nogales revealed that this was much bigger than a physical wall. This was a division that cut through families, communities, and lives.

We build up walls and think it is solving a problem when really it is just creating more division and heartbreak. Not only does the border wall affect people, but it also puts wildlife in danger as it affects their migration patterns. The wall also causes flooding that damages buildings, homes, and many places that the people in both cities in the United States and Mexico rely on. Indigenous lands are destroyed, and the people are detained as they attempt to migrate freely across the border for religious and cultural purposes.

The border wall stands as a symbol of a broader injustice in society.

Pictures of the Nogales barrier wall

As a society, we need to consider why people choose to immigrate to the United States. We also need to think about how the border wall is doing more harm than good for society. People are still going to find a way through, so we should instead make more legal pathways for people to gain forms of documentation. Through this experience, I learned that I have a privilege, and with privilege comes power, the power to use my voice for good. Power to break down barriers and instead build bridges.