Migration is an exceptionally broad topic, encompassing various origins and influencing a multitude of circumstances. It can involve scenarios such as returning, deportation, or seeking refuge, among others. However, an essential aspect of comprehending those who have experienced migration is understanding the culture they have embraced as their own. Leaving the place one calls home is a daunting prospect, and the deep roots cultivated over the years can be torn asunder in mere seconds. Considering the unique cultural perspective of each individual and the act of deportation itself, it is here that GDL SUR Destino y Libertad makes its impact. GDL SUR Destino y Libertad is a non-profit civil association that was established in 2010. Its primary focus is on rehabilitation, reintegration, and psychological counseling.
In the realm of rehabilitation, the organization assists individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction in their journey towards starting anew. Similarly, in the context of reintegration, they provide support to help individuals find gainful employment, particularly Chicanos or homies who often face discrimination, along with challenges related to identification. GDL SUR Destino y Libertad also offers psychological counseling services. This is crucial because the experiences of homies often leads to significant trauma, such as deportation, incarceration, returning to their country of origin, or arriving in an unfamiliar country
This non-profit civil association was founded by Roberto Hernandez Ramirez. Although he was born in Sinaloa, he was taken to Los Angeles, California at a very young age. He spent his formative years and adolescence in a foreign country, distinct from his place of birth. “I lived a very chaotic and dysfunctional life in the United States due to the choices I made when I was young, including my time in jail and subsequent deportation,” he shared. In 2004, Roberto faced deportation to the state of Tamaulipas after spending eight years in jail. It wasn’t until the end of 2006 that he arrived in Jalisco and made the pivotal decision to establish what would later become GDL SUR Destino y Libertad. His journey involved a process of social readaptation, detoxification, and rehabilitation from alcohol and drug addiction. Remarkably, he realized the effectiveness of this process when he undertook it upon arriving in Guadalajara. This personal transformation became the guiding principle he aspired to instill in his organization. Roberto dedicated himself to education and self-improvement to equip himself to work with individuals facing circumstances similar to those he had overcome. He recognized the need for a support system tailored to those who, like him, had experienced deportation and struggled with addiction.
While Chicano culture has garnered increased attention in recent years, it has not always been actively addressed by society. This is where Roberto and GDL SUR’s mission comes into play. During his time in a rehabilitation center, Roberto endured discrimination and rejection due to his life story. It was clear that there was a lack of understanding for Chicano culture in that particular center. Drawing from this experience, Roberto was motivated to establish GDL SUR as a space where individuals like him, often referred to as “homies,” could receive the attention they needed while having their unique stories understood. Through this approach, the organization aims to help homies improve their lives with guidance from someone who has walked a similar path.
People arriving in Mexico due to deportation face a starkly different situation than what they were accustomed to in the United States, often leading to a profound cultural shock. As Roberto explains, “Being Mexican is one thing, but being a cholo or a gang member in the United States, while not being seen as a respectable person, is still a reality. And in Mexico, we are experiencing it too.” This predicament triggers an ongoing internal struggle, prompting individuals to question why they must change to gain acceptance in society. It’s a constant battle between staying true to the culture and lifestyle they have known for most of their lives and the process of adapting to a new phase of life.Roberto remarks, “This place was opened in 2010 out of a necessity that was often overlooked or ignored by others.” People who identify with Chicano culture have grappled with acceptance not only in the United States but also in Mexico. There exists a general lack of understanding within societies regarding the distinction between being Mexican and being bi-national (Chicano, pocho, Mexican-American). Recognizing this need, spaces like GDL SUR Destino y Libertad have emerged, offering a familiar environment for Chicano individuals to enhance their lives alongside others who have shared similar journeys.
Interview
Interviewee: Roberto Hernandez Ramirez
Q: What is the protocol when you arrive at the organization?
When you arrive at the organization, there is a protocol in place, primarily for your safety. It’s important to emphasize that each individual is unique, and the approach may vary based on their circumstances. For example, it’s not the same to receive someone who has a history of incarceration and is in their forties compared to someone who is the child of someone deported after 20 years in the United States, doesn’t speak much Spanish, and doesn’t want to be in Mexico. In cases like the latter, the use of a language often referred to as “Spanglish” can provide a sense of comfort, allowing them to express themselves more freely, with reassurance that they have support. It’s important to note that this place is not exclusively for individuals dealing with addiction, incarceration, or mental health issues; it’s also open to people who may be alone and in need of assistance. Regarding security and the intake process, there is a meticulous assessment. The staff can quickly identify who you are and, if necessary, they will make contact with the United States. Based on the information gathered, a decision will be made. In very rare cases, where there may be an issue of compatibility or understanding between the individual and the organization, it may be necessary to decline assistance to a very small minority. This decision is made in the best interest of all parties involved.
Q: What is the process at GDL Sur to help the Chicano community find dignified work?
I have had the opportunity to work with various institutions, including call centers, churches, and even political parties. In each case, I make an effort to both listen to their proposals and understand their needs while also offering my own suggestions. For instance, during my time at AT&T, I collaborated with two representatives who have since become managers. They even reached out to me to inquire if I could recommend new candidates for them. In the vibrant rap scene of Jalisco, there are approximately eight notable artists I’d like to mention. First, there’s 420, a homie hailing from Los Angeles, just like myself. Then there’s The Mara, originally from the south of Mexico but closely connected with our group, as he has embraced our culture due to his experiences. Remik Gonzales, from Tijuana, has also adopted our culture. From Texas, there are two artists who have embraced it, and there’s one from Arizona named Ave Fenix. Additionally, several artists from Los Angeles have ventured to Jalisco and collaborated with local talents, including notable figures like C-Kan. These collaborations have resulted in songs that have gained significant recognition.
Q: What is the main impact that the organization has at the local level?
The impact of our work in Jalisco is evident when you consider the transformation these individuals have undergone compared to their previous circumstances. Many of them faced the question of whether to return to the United States or not. I have been spearheading this effort independently, but envisioning a future where we can expand our impact by involving figures from diverse economic, academic, and cultural backgrounds. The goal is to have individuals who have found stability and peace in Jalisco without engaging in criminal activities. Such a change would undoubtedly have a positive influence.
I won’t claim that this program has achieved incredibly high levels of “progress,” but it has certainly made strides, which are even more significant when compared to shelters where individuals sometimes have to pay for assistance. What I can affirm is that many of these individuals have since settled down, gotten married, and started families. However, it’s important to acknowledge that our impact, though positive, remains relatively modest in the state of Jalisco. I aspire for it to be more substantial, but achieving that requires financial resources and a larger team. I, alone, cannot accomplish this on a grand scale. In Guadalajara, I can confidently assert that you can find homies working in virtually any call center, illustrating the potential for broader change.
Q: Which are the main challenges facing the organization?
One of the most challenging aspects is helping the homies grasp that returning to the USA is not an option. We are already in Mexico, and we must accept our Mexican identity. We have undergone detoxification and even participated in programs to help us lead fulfilling lives without relying on substances like alcohol or marijuana. However, I’m also noticing other needs emerging, and if these needs aren’t met or addressed, there’s a risk of falling back into old patterns. It’s as if we feel that doors are closing, similar to what happened in the United States and initially here in Mexico upon our arrival. Convincing individuals that they need to study, behave responsibly, and work diligently can be very challenging when they are resistant to making these changes.
Q: What are the areas to highlight or skills that GDL Sur can offer to the community?
We are a house of life that was created for a need that only we could see and today we are the only one in Guadalajara where we provide free service, respect for human integrity, provide occupational therapies, teach you, and explain what are the things that you should consider of value as we did not do before, what are the advantages and how these disadvantages do not affect us to make decisions.
Q: Do you think there are areas for improvement within the organization?
Certainly, there is room for improvement within the organization. I’ve dedicated 15 years to this work, and I’ve reached a point where I’m feeling fatigued and ready to step back. I’ve helped many people, and my conscience feels somewhat clearer for the contributions I’ve made. What I’d like to see is for all the information I’ve shared, which has been gathered through interviews and interactions, to be used to develop concrete projects. However, it’s disheartening to note that there seems to be a lack of priority placed on this issue, and there aren’t enough individuals or organizations focused on providing support.
Perhaps one way to move forward is to seek out individuals with the resources and willingness to support a specific project. For instance, we could approach someone who wants to make a difference in the lives of a particular population, such as children returning to Mexico, those in their 60s, or even those arriving with their children and grandchildren. We could propose creating a program aimed at helping them reintegrate into a society they are not familiar with. While such a project may require significant funding, it could be dedicated to assisting the children of dreamers, making a positive impact in their lives.
Q: How did the organization change before and after the Covid-19 pandemic?
There haven’t been significant changes within the organization before and after the Covid-19 pandemic. While the pandemic had a profound impact on many aspects of society, including businesses and clinics, the organization maintained its operations without major disruptions. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there was a consistent presence of individuals seeking assistance and support, and the organization continued its work without interruptions.
Reflections
Comparisons
When comparing GDL SUR Destino y Libertad with the Mindanao Migrants Center for Empowering Actions, Inc. (MMCEAI) in the Philippines, there are both similarities and differences in their approaches.
Similarities
Specific Population Focus: Both organizations cater to distinct segments of the migrant society. MMCEAI addresses the needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), while GDL SUR Destino y Libertad works with individuals deported from the United States to Mexico.
Differences
Gender-Specific Focus: MMCEAI places a specific emphasis on addressing the unique challenges faced by migrant women. In contrast, GDL SUR Destino y Libertad does not specify a gender-specific community within the population they assist.
Nature of the Support
MMCEAI primarily focuses on providing support for the life decisions and well-being of OFWs. They work to empower OFWs to make informed choices and improve their conditions while working abroad. In contrast, GDL SUR Destino y Libertad specializes in the process of readaptation for deported individuals, helping them reintegrate into Mexican society and start a new life after deportation. Both the Mindanao Migrants Center for Empowering Actions, Inc. (MMCEAI) and GDL SUR Destino y Libertad have forged partnerships and relationships with other organizations and institutions to create a stronger support network for their respective populations. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in achieving their primary objective of generating opportunities to enhance the lives of their target groups.
MMCEAI has engaged with various sectors of their government to establish a robust platform for supporting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Their partnerships have contributed to creating an infrastructure that sustains their projects and helps protect the rights and well-being of OFWs both at home and abroad. GDL SUR Destino y Libertad has collaborated with universities and other organizations that focus on migration-related issues to strengthen their support system for deported individuals. Their alliances have shed light on the challenges faced by deported individuals, thereby creating awareness and understanding within society.
Common Objectives
Both organizations share the overarching goal of providing opportunities and support to the populations they serve. They aim to improve the conditions and livelihoods of the individuals within their respective focus groups. MMCEAI aims to build a community committed to safeguarding the rights and well-being of OFWs, both domestically and internationally. GDL SUR Destino y Libertad seeks to help deported individuals and create a trustworthy community. They work to dispel stereotypes and demonstrate that individuals with tattoos or past offenses can be given a second chance in Mexico, particularly in Guadalajara.
Ultimately, both organizations have experienced significant success, albeit measured by different criteria. GDL SUR has achieved successes such as a reduced desire to return to the United States, integration of deported individuals into call center jobs, and the promotion of Chicano culture through events like “Chicano Fest.” MMCEAI, on the other hand, has achieved success through its focus on sharing success stories and overcoming adversity. While their metrics may differ, both organizations prioritize the welfare of migrants and the assistance they provide to them.
References
Researchers
Hello everyone! My name is Salma Hallal. I’m 23 years old and I was born in the city of Guadalajara, Jalisco in Mexico. Currently, I’m in my last semester as a student in International Relations at the Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores del Occidente in Guadalajara, Mexico. The topics that I am interested in are gender dynamics, feminism, migration, intercultural communication, and journalism. I enjoy attending concerts and music festivals, reading, watching movies, and spending time with my family and friends. I really appreciate the opportunity of participating in a project like this.
Hello everyone, My name isGladys Lazcano, and I’m 22 years old. I study International Relations at Western Institute of Technology and Higher Studies (ITESO) in Guadalajara, which is also my hometown. My interests primarily revolve around studying contemporary societal issues, particularly those related to human rights and migration. In my leisure time, I have a passion for learning new languages, and at the moment, I am focused on Chinese. Additionally, I find joy in sports, with swimming being one of my favorite activities. I am truly grateful and delighted to have been invited to be a part of this magnificent event.