Anonymous, 22

I am a first generation Mexican-American daughter to two wonderful parents who immigrated here from Jalisco, Mexico in hopes of obtaining a better future. My father first came to the United States at the age of 19 in 1994 with hopes of working hard to earn enough money to purchase a book he needed for school. My fathers intentions were never to stay here but instead to return to his home, purchase his book and resume his schooling. Life had other plans for him. Since then he has spent every day working hard to provide for our family, ensuring we accomplish everything he never had the chance to. 31 years have passed since he’s seen his hometown. He has spent most of his life in a country and a government that despises his race, his people, him. My heart breaks because our people don’t mean to cause harm or take away from others. Most are here with a simple dream or goal they plan to accomplish by working hard. In times like these it is when we need to stand together and fight the good fight. I stand with Father Gary and am so so grateful to have him as our priest. I am going to continue to pray for him and that he reaches his destination safely. May God protect him with every step he takes. God Bless you Father Gary. Thank you for your strength and courage. Your community is so blessed to have you.