In Jacumba Hot Springs, California, migrant families gather after crossing the border from Mexico. They have left their home countries, looking for safety and a better life in the United States. Under simple shelters, they rest and wait for Border Patrol officers to find them. Their journey was very hard and their future is uncertain.
In recent months, more people have been crossing the border between San Diego and Mexico. They come from countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Turkey, Brazil, Jordan, Egypt, India, and China. This has caused a lot of discussion, especially with President Joe Biden running for re-election soon.
To try to stop more people from coming, Biden’s government made a new rule. It says that people caught crossing illegally cannot ask for asylum. But there are exceptions for children alone and others in very dangerous situations.
Many migrants say they are running away from danger and threats in their home countries. For example, Edward, a teacher from Colombia, came with his wife and baby girl after they started getting threats.
Even though the rules make it harder, migrants keep coming despite the risks. Locals like Karen Parker try to help by giving them water, snacks, and medical supplies. But there is worry about not having enough shelter or support for those stuck in the hot desert.
People like Moath from Jordan and Alejandro from Colombia keep hoping for a better life in the US, even with the new rules making things difficult. Their stories show how determined migrants are to find safety and opportunities.
As the government tries to figure out what to do, the struggles of migrants in the California desert remind us that immigration policies affect real people. We need solutions that are caring and effective.