Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

Bishop Mark J. Seitz emphasized the importance of viewing immigration as a human issue, specifically focusing on human rights and dignity. He expressed concerns about a proposed border agreement that would have weakened asylum protections for asylum-seekers, stating that it would violate human rights. Seitz advocated for managing the southern border in ways that protect human rights and emphasized the need to address the root causes of migration.

Joanna Williams from the Kino Border Initiative highlighted the challenges faced by migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border, noting that reception infrastructures are at risk of collapsing due to lack of funding. She also mentioned that a significant number of migrants served by her organization are from Mexico, particularly from the state of Guerrero, where factors like insecurity and corruption drive forced displacement.

Guerline Jozef, founder of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, shed light on the plight of migrants fleeing from countries like Haiti, Guinea, and Congo, among others. She described the arduous journey that many migrants undertake to reach the U.S., often facing dangers in places like the Darién Gap. Jozef criticized U.S. policies that push borders southward, forcing migrants into the hands of traffickers and smugglers.

Dylan Corbett, executive director of the Hope Border Institute, raised concerns about the CBP One smartphone app, which migrants use to set appointments at U.S. ports of entry. He called it a "systemic failure" and stressed the need for the government to prioritize vulnerable migrants. Corbett also criticized the hyper-politicization of the border, describing it as an obstacle to immigration reform efforts and emphasizing the importance of a vision grounded in faith and hope.

In conclusion, the speakers at the webinar highlighted the need for a more humane and dignified approach to addressing the migration crisis, focusing on upholding human rights, providing support for migrants, and finding sustainable solutions that consider the well-being of those seeking refuge.