Altagracia, a 39-year-old woman from Siguatepeque, Honduras, embarked on a challenging journey to the US-Mexico border with two clear goals in mind: claiming asylum in the United States and reuniting with her children already living there. However, her journey was overshadowed by the news of Donald Trump's victory in the US election, where he emphasized a strict stance on immigration policies.
Concerned about the potential implications of Trump's presidency on her asylum claim, Altagracia found herself racing against time to reach the US border before Trump's inauguration on January 20. She expressed fears that Trump's administration might make it harder for migrants like her to enter the US, given his promises of crackdowns on immigration and border security.
Altagracia's worries reflect the sentiments of many migrants who are rushing to reach the US-Mexico border before Trump assumes office. The uncertainty surrounding Trump's rhetoric on mass deportations and border closures has fueled anxiety among those seeking asylum or a better life in the United States.
Speaking from a shelter in Oaxaca, Mexico, Altagracia highlighted the urgency of her journey and the challenges she faced along the way. She chose not to disclose her last name, fearing that it could jeopardize her asylum application in the US.
As Altagracia and other migrants navigate through Central America and Mexico, their hopes of reaching the US border remain uncertain amidst the changing political landscape. The upcoming transition of power in the US has added a sense of urgency to their journey, as they strive to fulfill their aspirations while navigating the complexities of immigration policies.
