20th Annual Winter Institute - Pre-Institute Workshop

Border Immersion Experience: A Journey of Solidarity and Reflection

Led by Sandia Prep faculty, you are invited to join the Border Immersion Experience in El Paso, Texas. Partnering with Cristo Rey offers a unique border-issue perspective, emphasizing empathy and understanding. The goal is to recognize and celebrate communities' diversity while acknowledging their interconnectedness with all people. The main objective of this pre-Institute trip is to engage in reciprocal learning and collaboration with the resilient communities of the borderlands. The program aims to exchange ideas, experiences, and support with the participants.

Throughout the program, participants will visit the border region without crossing into Mexico. They will engage in meaningful conversations with individuals affected by border policies, including visits to shelters where they can speak to family members. Additionally, there will be opportunities to share meals with refugees and dialogue with social workers, immigration officers, and other community members to gain a comprehensive perspective on immigration issues. These immersive engagements will help you understand humanity better and strengthen bonds with your neighbors. We will work towards greater empathy and solidarity in confronting the barriers communities face along the border.