It was a typical day working as a compañera with Taller de José; however, instead of going into the office to accompany a particular client, I went to 101 W Congress Parkway to stand with mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, friends and community members who have been deeply affected by our current immigration policies. As I listened to testimonies of mothers whose husbands have been deported, children left without their fathers, these stories filled with pain and distress were all too familiar.
Each day at Taller de José we walk with people to access essential resources throughout Chicago, and we assist people in prioritizing their needs and offer a listening ear in the midst of their struggles. Though our day to day walk with people does not include a picket sign, our ministry of accompaniment is a part of a larger struggle. The people gathered in front of the immigration office demanding justice for their families and loved ones are the people that we accompany – immigrant mothers, fathers and children challenging their neighbors to act with compassion.
