This week’s entry is dedicated entirely to young people who dream of becoming United States citizens and the dignity, respect, and opportunities that come with citizenship.

Papers the Movie: Stories of Undocumented Youth: This documentary portrays both the institutional brokenness of the current immigration system and the psychological toll it takes on undocumented youth as they face the daunting challenge of continuing their education. Each year 65,000 students face the hardship of graduating from a high school in America ineligible for most scholarships, federal financial aid, or in-state tuition at all but 10 states. Due to these constraints only 5% enroll at an institution of higher learning. “Papers” follows five youths as they narrate their stories full of challenges and at rare, but beautiful times, joy. Find a showing near you.

A rare and hopeful piece of news: At the moment four undocumented youths are embarking on a four month walk from Florida to DC to promote immigration reform. They recently entered Georgia and were hosted by the Koinonia Christian farm community, birthplace of Habitat for Humanity, Jubilee Partners, Prison Jail Project, & Fuller Center for Housing (and a great place to intern). They were hosted by Nashua, a local community organizer, who informed them that, “many other people are walking [with them] in the struggle,” both physically and figuratively. Carlos Roa’s conclusion of their stop in Americus says it best: “we all may be different on the outside; but as people we hold the same feelings on the inside and have the capability to love one another as close brothers and sisters.”

Sadly, upon entering Nahunta, GA the group was met by the KKK. Though only five days out from Americus, GA, the DREAMers faced a completely opposite experience. The report from that day written by Juan Rodriguez understandably demonstrates more frustration and disappointment. Yet in spite of the KKK’s wrongful justification for their rally--“God put each race in their respective continent and they were meant to stay there”--and the support of this hate demonstration by some of the locals, Rodriguez is able to find clarity and a voice: “We ALL deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. We all deserve to be acknowledged for our humanity.”

Bible passage of the week: Psalm 126:1-6 (New Living Translation)

A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem. When the LORD brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! And the other nations said, "What amazing things the LORD has done for them." Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy! Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.

Marco Saavedra serves as Campaign Intern for Christians for Comprehensive Immigration Reform. He studies Sociology at Kenyon College and is of Mexican heritage.