If you are an American - read this

[Jzmackenzie]

"Americans are Blessed," were Arturo Lona's words at our dinner table last night in Central Mexico. He had just returned from nearly 3 months in a detention facility in San Deigo, CA. Unemployed for the last 4 months, he ignored our final desperate plea to not cross illegally, but to instead wait for a work contract. "My family is hungry. I have to try. I will be alright." he said the night he left. But he was not "alright" as he was nearly killed by Mexican bandits on the border. They took every cent he had. Thank goodness they spared his life.

Work? There was no work for him in the USA. But then he was detained, and "treated so well!" were his words. He told of "good food" and having "an hour a day in a park!" and of giving some "time with a TV every day," (something he does not have at home)." He also was also examined by a doctor, dentist, psychologist, helped by an attorney, and immigration agent. In court, he was treated with dignity and given respect. The numerous phone calls I made to the Federal Defenders of San Diego where his attorney worked were heard, and the letter I wrote to the judge was read last Monday in his courtroom. He swore that letter was why he was send back to the border:

"I have been a volunteer special education teacher for marginalized Mexicans
in Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico, since 2005. In 2008, I moved to an
indigenous village with my family to do sociocultural research. A neighbor,
who lives just one household from mine, Arturo Lona inmate
ID# xxxxx has a hearing for illegal entry.

I, Dr. Jacqueline Zaleski Mackenzie, I would love to give a character
reference for this man. I employ two of his children aged 9 and 11. They
are the only kids I have ever seen reading a book in the five years I have
lived and researched in this indigenous village. The family is dedicated to
their four children. I know all four students well. Arturo sends the kids to
a better school than what we have in the village. Arturo has helped me with University of Arizona projects here in Cajones, GTO. He is a responsible member of the community, who, until 4 months ago, was steadily employed

Please know that I stake my reputation on him being a well-behaved,
responsible, careful, Mexican law-abiding man who deserves to be returned home ASAP so he can care for his family."

He then asked Jolene Gailey? to translate a letter to his attorney, Ryan Stitt? with blessings that Ryan on day be the most famous attorney in all the USA. He praised everyone in the USA who stood by him and made it possible for him to return to his family. He praised, and praised those in America and the God who stood by his side and made it possible for him to return to his home and family. Please note his closing words, as we Americans too often forget what we have: "God Bless America!"

[philyrossy]

as we Americans too often forget what we have: "God Bless America!"

Truer words were NEVER spoken, and thank you for sharing this story!