Fredys arrived at the KBI comedor from Honduras two years ago, fleeing violence and recruitment from organized crime. When he decided to seek asylum, the KBI/Florence Project Legal Fellow took on his case. Despite the obstacles, his claim was approved, an example of how legal representation can impact outcomes. Today, Fredys lives in Virginia, and returned to Arizona last month to share his story at the KBI Dinner.   In his hometown of Choluteca, Honduras, 26-year-old Fredys Sevilla … [Read more...]

Central American migrants, fleeing their homelands to escape the extreme violence there, are beset by more dangers as they travel through Mexico. Crimes, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common, and many migrants encounter discrimination, corrupt government officials, and deportation. Kevin shared his story with the KBI, an account that illustrates how harrowing the journey can be. My name is Kevin, and I’m 24 years old, born and raised in a district of Guatemala City. My … [Read more...]

Amidst the suffering endured by migrants who are apprehended, detained, and deported, a deep bond of common experience and common humanity is forged, and many a migrant story includes touching details of kind strangers, helpful advice, and shared resources. Every day, the KBI encounters people who, despite their own pain and untenable circumstances, offer sustenance and solidarity to others. Tere is one of them.   Deported to Nogales, Sonora after decades of living in Phoenix, Tere … [Read more...]