A Transformative Journey to the U.S.-Mexico Border
- John-Michael Scurio
- Aug 29, 2024
- 4 min read
In May 2024, a group of visionary funders from across the United States and Mexico embarked on a journey that would forever alter their understanding of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Organized by Hispanics in Philanthropy (HIP) and Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees (GCIR), this trip to the Rio Grande Valley was not just a visit — it was an awakening.
As the fifteen funders crossed into the heart of McAllen, Texas, and Reynosa, Tamaulipas, they encountered a reality that starkly contrasted with the narratives often portrayed in the media. They witnessed the harsh consequences of unjust immigration policies and heard the voices of those who live daily under their shadow. But amidst the struggle, they also discovered a powerful story of resilience, resistance, and hope — a story that demands to be told.
Changing the Narrative
Upon their return, these funders were not the same. They were galvanized, their perspectives reshaped by the stories of courage and endurance they had encountered. In discussions and debriefings, a collective resolve emerged: to shift the narrative surrounding the border and to challenge the pervasive anti-migrant rhetoric that fuels division and hate.
Stephanie Acosta of the El Paso Community Foundation captured this sentiment perfectly. She spoke passionately about the need to transition from seeing the border as a crisis zone to recognizing it as a place of potential — a place where long-term investments can cultivate thriving communities. The El Paso Community Foundation's Puente initiative, a binational news collaborative, stands as a testament to this vision. Led by Alfredo Corchado, it is reshaping the way we understand the border through the lens of local journalism, proving that the stories we tell can change the world.
"When we shift the narrative, not only about the border but also in philanthropy — from an emergency response to a long-term investment — we will see our communities thrive," Acosta declared.
Her words are a rallying cry for funders everywhere to recognize that their power lies not just in their wallets, but in their ability to influence how stories are told and understood.
The Heartbeat of Change
The visit also highlighted the indispensable role of grassroots and youth-led organizations operating in the border region. These groups, often working with limited resources under intense scrutiny, are the true drivers of change. Their work is not just vital — it is heroic.
Lincoln Mondy from the Andrus Family Fund shared the story of Ramona, a leader with ARISE who has dedicated her life to advocating for her community. Her journey from a concerned young adult to a seasoned activist echoes the stories of countless others who refuse to abandon their principles, even in the face of overwhelming odds. These grassroots leaders are the heartbeat of the border, and their efforts must be supported, amplified, and celebrated.
The Key to Unlocking Change
But no single organization or individual can tackle the challenges at the border alone. The trip underscored the importance of collaboration among funders. By sharing information, strategies, and best practices, they can create a more robust support system for those on the front lines.
Carolline Kim of the Levi Strauss Foundation emphasized the need for bold, innovative strategies. She pointed to data from the Refugee Advocacy Lab showing that personal connections with refugees dramatically increase support for resettlement. This insight underscores the transformative power of storytelling — a theme that resonated throughout the trip.
A United Front
Of course, the path forward is fraught with challenges, particularly in navigating the complex legal and policy landscape that organizations at the border must contend with. Recent executive orders, such as those affecting asylum rights and policies like Title 42, have created significant hurdles.
Andrea Villaseñor de la Vega spoke of the need for coordinated responses to these legal challenges, highlighting the critical role funders can play in advocating for policy changes that protect and empower border communities.
A Path to Sustainable Solutions
Perhaps most importantly, the visit reinforced the value of community expertise. The funders recognized that those who live and work at the border possess unparalleled knowledge and insights. Supporting and elevating these voices is not just an option — it is a necessity.
Andrea Villaseñor de la Vega noted the strong coordination among diverse organizations across the border. Their specialized roles and collective efforts are essential in addressing the wide range of needs identified during the visit.
A Renewed Commitment to Justice
As they left the border, the funders carried with them not just memories, but a renewed commitment to justice. They vowed to continue learning, listening, and investing in solutions driven by those most affected by human rights issues at the border.
Ivy O. Suriyopas reflected on the duality of strength and struggle within border communities. She emphasized the importance of amplifying authentic voices to shape philanthropic strategies that address the profound challenges—and opportunities—facing these communities.
The journey to the border was not just a trip; it was a call to action. It was a reminder that the fight for justice is far from over—and that every one of us has a role to play. As we move forward, let us heed the lessons learned and stand in solidarity with those on the front lines, knowing that together, we can create a future where all communities can thrive.🤝
The best work I think is in community. In the neighborhood, in the colonias. It reminds me of the Black church and how that's always been a center of organizing because of proximity and usually there are a lot of Black families who live around Black churches so it just makes sense to organize in that space.” - Lincoln Mondy
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