Roxana Delgado
It was Spring of 2012 when I traveled to Arizona. It was the first time I traveled alone outside of Chicago. It was the first time I saw right through the U.S.-Mexican border. There I stood in front of it, holding a white lit candle, listening to the tamborazo play on the other side as a mother in Arizona cried because of the loss of her 16 year-old son. This was the first time witnessing anything like this. I remember I had many feelings rushing through my body. I was sad because in a moment filled with grief, this “wall” separated a family. I was angry because this innocent young man was killed by border patrol and there they were interfering, not allowing this family to hold hands. I was thankful because I realized that my family would no longer have to live this type of life. Then I felt selfish because I know not everyone gets that opportunity. This moment of firsts opened my eyes and has made me believe! I believe no human being is “illegal” and that everyone has the right to a better life. Everyone deserves an opportunity, and I believe families should not be separated. I support the undocumented community.
The Butterfly postcard campaign was developed by the UIC Latino Cultural Center in collaboration with student organizations Fearless Undocumented Alliance and Heritage Garden Student Group that highlights the parallels between the migration of people and Monarch butterflies across national borders.