The countries of Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras have a deep history of colonial exploitation and US imperialist interventionism that continues to destabilize and make vulnerable the lives of so many citizens in these countries. In addition to political instability and grotesque wealth disparities, climate change is further exacerbating the challenges faced by youth. U.S. foreign policy has played a direct role in the mass movement of peoples fleeing situations of violence and desperation; this is inseparable from the current political moment around DACA, the “wall”, institutionalized family separation, and the newly issued policy from the Attorney General’s office that rescinds and denies asylum to victims of gang violence and domestic violence. This administration continues to throw the lives of Central Americans into turmoil, whether by holding up corrupt regimes and blessing election fraud or separating youth from their parents at the border.
Unfairly, youth are often cast as the reason for instability, criminality and violence (think gangs). The reality is that they are too often manipulated and blamed for the effects of complex, international corruption and organized criminal networks that flourish within exploitative economic systems. The harsh, inhumane policies on asylum seekers and refugees will shape the region and the population for the foreseeable future while adding more uncertainty and pain to the lives of many.
Yet another reality is that many youth in Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras have incredible passion to support their fellow citizens and reform their countries to be safe, just and sustainable. SERES is raising money for support youth at all phases of their journey and celebrate the great possibilities when youth are listened to, supported, encouraged to take on leadership roles and to speak up and to speak out.