Roxana

Born in the United States to immigrant parents, she spent her early childhood in Mexico before moving back to the U.S. with her family at around seven years old. Her parents made the move in 1999 in pursuit of what they believed would be greater opportunities for their children. Leaving behind her relatives, friends, and the place she considered home was an emotional experience that stayed with her.

Growing up, her parents were open about their undocumented status and never treated it as something to hide or be ashamed of. However, she did not fully understand the consequences of living without legal status until December 15, 2011, when her family received news that her grandfather in Mexico had died unexpectedly of a heart attack.

Wanting to attend the funeral, her family faced a painful reality. At the time, the cartels had already taken control of the Mexican side of the Rio Grande River. Traveling back to Mexico meant that her father could face serious danger and potentially be unable to safely return to his family in the United States.