Support Elizabeth's Migrant Solidarity Trip

Hi everyone! I'm Elizabeth and I've dedicated my career and personal time to working with immigrants and advocating for just immigration policies in the U.S. and globally. I have the opportunity to go on a migrant solidarity trip with the Quixote Center and the Franciscan Network on Migration throughout Panama, from the Darien jungle in the south, all the way to the northern border with Costa Rica. Despite the treacherous terrain, constant risk of violence, and lack of humanitarian assistance, more than half a million migrants from all around the world crossed the Darien Gap in 2023, as it is the only land-based pathway connecting South America and Central America.

During the trip, participants will speak with human rights defenders and asylum seekers making the journey and experience community-based responses and welcoming. The group will visit the Panamanian government's "reception centers" in the Darien region, as well as the country's only non-profit- run migrant shelter that serves medically vulnerable people. Something I love about this organization and the solidarity trips they organize is that they partner with local organizations on the ground and donations to local partners are built into the cost of the trip. You can read more about the organization and trip here.

This trip will help me better understand current migration trends and shape my response - and my community's response - to the current and changing landscape of migration, which will become even more crucial under the incoming administration. I believe with my entire being that it is our duty as humans to zealously care for our fellow humans, regardless of borders or nationality, and to do what we can to make the world a better place for everyone.

Any funds raised will go towards my flight, lodging, meals, land transportation within Panama, and donations to local partners.

Thank you for any support you are able to give!