

What's really happening at the US-Mexico border -- and how we can do better | Erika Pinheiro
Nov 14, 2019
Erika Pinheiro, an immigration attorney and policy director at Al Otro Lado, sheds light on her work with asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border. She shares her deeply personal experience of being detained and separated from her son, bringing a heartfelt perspective to the harsh realities faced by families. The discussion reveals the psychological toll of inhumane immigration policies and the urgent need for systemic change. Pinheiro emphasizes the importance of compassion and humanity in addressing this ongoing humanitarian crisis.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Ana's Story
- Erika Pinheiro describes her experience with Ana, a woman separated from her special-needs son by CBP.
- After being stonewalled by officials, Pinheiro located the son in foster care and Ana in a detention camp.
Other Stories of Mistreatment
- Pinheiro shares several other stories of children mistreated in custody, including Mateo, Amadou, and Maria.
- Maria, a pregnant refugee, miscarried after being denied medical attention for eight hours.
The Personal Impact of Witnessing Cruelty
- Witnessing these events has deeply affected Pinheiro, changing her outlook and conversations.
- She urges others to fight harder, emphasizing the potential for anyone to face similar situations.