Tijuana's Deported Community Organizes to Support Arriving Migrants

Tijuana, Mexico - Javier Salazar Rojas, known as 'Deported Artist,' and a group of fellow Mexican deportees in Tijuana are organizing to provide support for individuals and families recently apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and deported to Mexico. The initiative aims to offer a welcoming community for those who arrive with little to no resources. Salazar, speaking near the border fence, highlighted the pervasive fear among undocumented immigrants in the United States, stating, 'There is a lot of fear right now; people don't want to go out, they don't want to go to work.' He explained that community members in Tijuana are stepping up, with volunteers helping to buy food and necessities for those afraid to leave their homes due to potential detention. He lamented the challenges faced by deportees, emphasizing that returning to Mexico often means 'starting from scratch.' Salazar noted a lack of social programs in Tijuana to help individuals reintegrate into society. However, he expressed gratitude for Tijuana's open arms and the strong support from the local community and family members across the border. Salazar's message to immigrants in the U.S. is clear: 'You are not alone.' He assured them that upon their return to Tijuana, a large community is ready to receive them, ensuring they will not be isolated.