ALETTE LIZ WILLIAMS
on behalf of I am Here:
Borders of Hope Campaign
(initiative of the Pan American
Development Foundation)
HUMAN migration patterns reflect the conditions of a changing world and influence the cultural landscapes of the places people depart and the places they eventually settle or refer to as home. People sometimes view migration as a recent phenomenon. However, migration has been a feature of human existence for centuries. People have always migrated in groups and as individuals to seek freedom from war and conflict, escape hunger and poverty, find new economic opportunities and employment, overcome religious intolerance or political repression, or even trade and travel to new places.
We only have to refer to history to acknowledge the great migration stories in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. The impact of migration is straightforward and continues to prevail in this present time.
Our Venezuelan neighbours' situation is dire. They have found themselves in an unenviable position where economic circumstances have forced them, according to USA for UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency, 'to be among the second largest international displacement crisis in the world with six million Venezuelans displaced globally.'
Of the displaced, 4.8 million reside in Latin America and the Caribbean. Most Venezuelans lack documentation to stay regularly in nearby countries and are not guaranteed access to basic rights. In TT, Venezuelan migrants continue to be exposed to heightened risks of exploitation, trafficking, violence, discrimination and xenophobia.
The migrant's story is not only the Venezuelans' burden to bear, but we only have to look to the US and the explosive migrant crisis that has gripped major US cities. New York City Mayor Eric Adams called on the city to show a 'god-like spirit' in continuing to accept asylum seekers, demanding, 'It's not acceptable for immigrants to turn on immigrants.'
Many parallels are reflected in the Venezuelan migrant crisis in TT. Religious bodies have ably demonstrated the underpinnings of the 'god-like' spirit, gathering their resources, believers and supporters to assist the Venezuelans who have called TT home for the last five years.
Religious texts speak to the importance of care for humanity. Above all, we are to treat others how we would like to be treated. The church, temple, mosques and other religious bodies have all rendered yeoman humanitarian aid in ensuring we are our brother's keeper.
Religion performs the critical function of providing social solidarity in a society. According to executive director of the Caribbean Centre for Human Rights, Denise Pitcher, religious organisations have always upheld their values regarding humanitarian aid. It is therefore not surprising that these groups, through selfless acts of care, continue to provide basic human needs to the migrant population, which are inalienable rights afforded to an individual.
The charitable efforts of our religious organisations are to be lauded. The R
