DELEGATION TO U.S.-MEXICO BORDERLANDS, 27 MAY TO 5 JUNE, 2008

In the wake of the U.S. Congress' inaction on comprehensive immigration reform, millions of immigrants contend with a broken system that takes advantage of their contribution to the economy, yet promotes the criminalization of immigration offenses. Meanwhile, mothers and fathers desperate to provide for their families continue to make the risky trek into the U.S. from Mexico. U.S. Border policies in recent years have forced migrants into increasingly dangerous and remote areas, leading to over 200 deaths annually in the Arizona desert. In response, Christian Peacemaker Teams has had a seasonal presence along the border since 2004. Members of CPT's Borderlands delegation will monitor human rights, meet with representatives of human rights groups and government officials, and plan and carry out a nonviolent public witness confronting unjust immigration policies.

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They will visit individuals on both sides of the border, including in Lomas de Poleo, Mexico, where residents of a farming community live virtually under siege as they await a court ruling verifying their ownership of the land. The delegation will be based in Tucson and Douglas, Arizona, and El Paso, Texas, and travel to the Mexican cities of Agua Pieta and Juarez. Delegation members arrange their own transportation to Tucson, Arizona, and raise $500 U.S. for on-ground and program expenses.

CPT is a faith-based group that seeks participants who are interested in human rights work, committed to nonviolence, and willing to participate in team worship and reflection. Delegates should have plans to share about the trip upon return to their home communities and congregations.

All on-ground travel, two to three meals a day, simple accommodations, and all honorariums and delegation fees are covered.