Members of the Network are already providing a myriad of resources to migrants. Network members will be able to enhance each other’s work by sharing information and resources via different media (bulletins, meetings and gatherings, capacity-building seminars, resource and route maps, threat advisories, etc.) that they can then pass on to migrants in their care along the route.
Hospitality: A Humane and Christian Proposal
"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." (Heb 13:2). In countries of the region, it is urgent for us to return to the concept of the human being as a priority before all...
Migrant Stories: My family and I set off with great joy
We are privileged to read the testimony of a man originally from Haiti, who, for economic reasons attempted to emigrate from Brazil with his wife and son.
Franciscan friars join the Virtual Migrant House volunteer team
“To be a volunteer is an option that makes us free.” –Papa Francisco
Migrant Stations of the Cross 2023. Let us walk with migrants who share our Common Home
Let us reflect and pray the way of the cross together with migrants and displaced persons.
RFM-Panama Visits El Zapallal, Darién Province
Between October 21 and 26, 2022, the RFM-Panama visited the community of El Zapallal, province of Darién. The objectives were to:
The RFM teams accompany the migrant from the “Spirit of Assisi”
he Spirit of Assisi arose from the initiative of John Paul II to hold an Interreligious Meeting in 1986 in the city of Assisi, as a city symbol of peace. One hundred and fifty representatives of the twelve main religions of the world participated in the meeting, whose purpose was dialogue and friendship between the different religions. The meeting established a clear opposition to violence in all its forms, mainly fratricidal wars and the practice of religion that favors violence and war. After this initial date, Pope John Paul II in 2002 once again summoned representatives and religious leaders to Assisi.
Brothers and Sisters in Patuca in Solidarity with Migrants. RFM-Honduras Visit
On October 15, the Franciscan Network for Migrants’ Honduras team traveled to the church of San José Nueva Choluteca, Patuca, Olancho, bringing a donation of mats, medicines, clothing and food.
At least 39 dead in Guanaco due to a crash involving a bus with migrants
GUALACA, CHIRIQUÍ. A bus carrying with 66 passengers including migrants, crashed in Los Planes de Gualaca, Chiriquí province, early this Wednesday, February 15. At the moment, 39 dead and more than 20 injured are reported.
The RFM joins the World Day of Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking
On Saturday, February 11, members of the Franciscan Network for Migrants met virtually to celebrate the World Day of Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking.
Actions Carried out in January 2023 by the RFM-Panama Team. Starting the year with hope on this path of being a brother and sister to migrants
We started the year strengthening our RFM team by coordinating the work shared by the San Antonio Parish, the San Vicente Migrant Fe y Alegría group, the Franciscan Network for Migrants, and migrants residing on the border.
Presentation of the 2022 Annual Report
On February 18, our 2022 annual report was launched with the presentation by the members of the RFM, who gave voice to the report, discussing the work and service, developments during a year full of challenges, and great hopes to provide the accompaniment to our migrant sisters and brothers.
Lenten Reflection on Migrant People
You will love the immigrant because you were immigrants in Egypt. Dt 10,19
Lent 2023
Update on the tragic accident involving migrants in Planes de Gualaca, Panama
After the tragic incident that occurred in the Planes de Gualaca, Chiriquí, Panama on February 15, in which 41 migrants lost their lives, many actions have been taken to respond to the needs of the survivors and relatives of the victims.
A Letter to Pope Francis. In the ten years of your pontificate, ten gifts for which to thank you
Dear Pope Francis, whom the cardinals as your brothers went to seek “almost to the end of the world”:
May the Lord give you peace!
Franciscan Border Encounter in McAllen, TX. 10-12 feb 2023
I was humbled to be in the presence of courageous individuals who, seeing such great need and acting in faith without a clear idea of exactly what to do, responded with compassion to migrants in need, opening camps in Mexico or resettlement centers in the U.S. Their action was the catalyst that empowered so many others to get involved—and the net result of increasing collaboration has made a huge difference for brothers and sisters in severe need. I was drawn to ask how we, as friars of the new Our Lady of GuadalupeProvince, can respond more fully to our sisters and brothers on the border. —Larry Hayes, OFM.
Migrant Stories: Fleeing Violence, Seeking Asylum in the United States
This narrative tells us the story of Zulema, a woman who leaves her homeland in Mexico because of violence – violence enacted not only by her partner but also by organized crime rings that supported her ex-husband. Upon departing, Zulema fled with her youngest son; she left a daughter with her grandparents. She tells us that her ex-partner has taken her eldest daughter from her and that although she has reported him for domestic violence, she has not found support in the authorities. The only option was to flee and today she is seeking refuge in the United States, dreaming of one day reuniting with her three children and being able to provide them with a safe environment.
Franciscan Border Experience and Binational Mass
The current humanitarian crisis on our southern border calls us to compassion and mercy as well as greater understanding. The Franciscan Network for Migrants–USA Team organized a three-day experience for a total of 28 people who witnessed firsthand the impact of US and state policies towards our migrant brothers and sisters.
Crisis in the Darien Gap
On October 11, the designated team of the parish went to the capital of Panama to buy the different elements to make the kit, these were: plastic flip-flops, soap, toothbrush, towel and bag. In total, some 192 kits were prepared for the migrants, a “little” for the average that is crossing the Darién jungle. The data is alarming, with more than 154,000 migrants who have passed through said jungle until the month of September, and for this day, October 12, it is reported by social networks that there are about 10,000 migrants waiting to cross Necoclí, Colombia to the jungle of Panama.
On October 12 we were a team of 8 people, including members of the RFM and the La Pintada parish. Upon arrival in Zapallal, Darién, we were surprised to find that the government, through the border military (SENAFRON), had evicted 85 migrants from the facilities of the Zapallal chapel, arguing that it is not a appropriate place to receive migrants. Since July 17 of the present, the Christian community of Zapallal has been attending to the migrants who arrive from the jungle. In total, they have assisted some 8,000 migrants. This parish is carried out by the Claretians. Fr. Eric received us and shared how the work is done. They are part of the kitchen team: Migdalia, Marlenis, Esther, Chela, Marta, Gladys, Vicky, Ángela, Alicia. There are other young volunteers in this team who receive the migrants.
Public statement on the situation of thousands of people crossing the Darién Gap.
According to official data, as of September 30, about 151,572 migrants had entered the Darién jungle, most of them of Venezuelan nationality.
Praised be our Lord for the first face-to-face meeting of the RFM Advocacy Committee!
The Advocacy Committee of the Franciscan Network for Migrants (RFM) held its first face-to-face meeting from September 30 to October 3, 2022 in the City of Bogotá, Colombia.
Migrant Center at the Church on 31st Street Is a Beacon for Immigrants, Asylum-Seekers Being Bussed to Big Apple from Texas
Migrant Center at the Church on 31st Street Is a Beacon for Immigrants, Asylum-Seekers Being Bussed to Big Apple from Texas
Migration Presentation at the Secular Franciscan Order’s 20th Quinquennial Congress
More than 600 members of the Secular Franciscan Order gathered in Phoenix, Arizona in from August 5th through 8th to share their faith and dedication to the franciscan lifestyle and charism. Members of the Franciscan Network for Migrants participated in a workshop entitled, “And I showed mercy to them…”
Migrants in Panama and National Unemployment
As members of the RFM-Panama Team, once again we want to share the current situation of migrants who are in transit through these lands
Panama: Confrontation between protesters and migrants
The People’s Alliance for Life has denounced that the Panamanian government has used migrants as a method of provocation to create false positives, generate chaos, and distort the struggle they are leading in the streets. The organization denounces that they are replicated in social networks both by civil and political groups, as well as by natural persons.
The visit of the animators of the JPIC Office in Rome, good news
During their time in Panama, several meetings were held between June 6 and 10, 2022
The Franciscan Network for Migrants Launches the “Virtual Migrant House”
The objective is to provide immediate virtual accompaniment to people who contact us through the chat, both in emergency situations, such as immediate departure from the country of origin, as well as information on organizations that contribute to the migratory issue, location and contact of houses or hostels in the American continent, etc.
Migration: A dream of life, not death
To the Governments of the United States, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras
To all people of good faith.
Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants
Human rights defenders and shelters have experienced an increase in acts of harassment, surveillance, defamation, and attacks by state and non-state actors for their work with the migrant population
Fr. John: My Volunteer Experience at La 72
I have been a Franciscan friar. I have been a dentist. Learning from the example of several dental colleagues, I went to the jungles of Peru from 2006 to 2008 to provide dental care to communities in remote locations
Migration is a right; refuge is the right that humanizes migration
World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honor refugees and displaced people around the world. It is commemorated on June 20th of each year.
Observation visits: Casa Betania Santa Martha
The area they are in is difficult, as it is a route where crime is the order of the day: insecurity, human trafficking, flora and fauna trafficking, drug trafficking, etc. Casa Betania is a transit house, and people can only stay for three days and must continue on their way so that new arrivals can also have a space to rest.
Observation visits: Casa Palenque
We talked about the risks they face every day: violence, insecurity and discrimination, and the support they have from COMAR to find work for migrants.
Observation Visits: Mexican Commission for Refugee Aid (COMAR), Tenosique, Tabasco
We learned about the relationship that the institution has with La 72, the only migrant shelter in Tenosique.
The FNM presents Annual Report 2021
Learn more about the work and articulation of the Franciscan Network for Migrants, an initiative inspired by the Franciscan charism and nurtured by the teaching of Pope Francis.
Migration, the ancient cause that has shaped the diversity of peoples
This May 21 is “The Celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.” This celebration refers us to the migratory reality as a bearer of cultural diversity. In this writing we will reflect from a biblical, socioeconomic, and ecclesial perspective the cultural richness that migration brings. That is, throughout history, human mobility has been the creator of current societies.
Marian Month and Migrant Mothers
In May, the celebration of Mother’s Day is combined with the Marian month that we Catholics celebrate. For the past several decades in these lands of Central America, mothers have lived the experience of uprooting that comes from separation from loved ones.
The Migrant Journeys On, Seeking Shelter, Work, and Land
Workers’ Day is a memorial date that directly involves men and women who have been forced to migrate from their lands. Every migrant carries the desire to find shelter, work, and land.
A Meeting at the Crossroads of Migrants 2022
On Good Friday, April 15th, part of the team of the Franciscan Network for Migrants of Honduras mobilized to deliver 150 emergency kits for migrants in the “Jesus is alive” Shelter, belonging to the Parish-Cathedral of Danlí, El Paraíso.
The migrant God who walks together with the migrant and displaced peasant people
Let’s consider how biblical narratives can illuminate us. They show us a God who walks with his people, who is involved in their history and reality.
Panama: Visit to the Gualaca Shelter in Chiriquí
The objective of the visit was to verify the situation of the stay and the human rights of the migrants who were in this refuge center.
The Flow of Water and the Force of the Migratory Flow
The causes that affect the quality of life of the population in our towns make families seek out decent places to live and coexist in tranquility. Families are forced to migrate for social and environmental reasons.
Organizing the Panamanian church as they face the migratory drama
I want to share the journey we have taken of late, with the intention of involving ourselves as Franciscans in accompanying migrants, and setting up the RFM team in Panama.
The Franciscan Network for Migrants Incorporates a New Member to the Team
It is with great joy that we welcome Vianey Martínez López. We are glad that she has joined the Franciscan Network for Migrants, as part of the Executive Secretariat, assuming coordination and liaison with the teams and shelters that belong to the Network.
Working for Justice: The Partnership Between UNHCR and Franciscan Mission Service
Starting in 2020, Franciscan Mission Service began a partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
A Panamanian Franciscan sister volunteering in Mexico
Everything is challenging because reality itself is always going to challenge one’s involvement. There are small details in which you can help and give yourself to others, which is priceless and timeless
General assembly of the FNM: «Towards an increasingly greater “WE”»
The Franciscan Network for Migrants met as an assembly whose objective was to evaluate 2021 and create an action plan for 2022
Justice and Migrants Go Hand in Hand
Searching for paths to social justice is placing oneself within the reality of so many people who cry out for it. Only a new and renewed society will be able to work and offer it as the fruit of its conquest.
From February 15 to 17 Red CLAMOR celebrates General Assembly
The CLAMOR Network celebrates this week, from February 15 to 17, its General Assembly , in which the presence of some 50 people from 20 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean
8th International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking
The theme of the eighth International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking is “The Power of Care – Women, Economics, Human Trafficking”.
Journalism is still a deadly business
The Mexican State has a duty to guarantee effective protection for journalists.
A friar from Brazil as a volunteer at La 72
We had the pleasure of interviewing him to find out more about him and what motivated him to volunteer at the shelter
Honduran hope has a woman’s name
Instead, this is a time for civil unity, for taking up the struggles of the native peoples and peasant communities. A time for strengthening the institutions that defend human rights, for re-establishing the autonomy and credibility of the powers of the State
Christian Unity, Human Solidarity
The ecclesial division, inequality, and social inequity generated by the hegemonic neoliberal system continue to create marginalized and discarded victims; among these victims and discarded are forced to migrate
A Migrant’s Hope
As the minutes, hours, and days go by in the migrants, love-made hope is emerging from within them. Those feelings that disrupt the human being and that, at the same time, are part of the human being as a whole and go together with the other noble feelings of struggle, resistance, solidarity, compassion, and hope.
“The Word became flesh…” and God became a migrant …
This Christmas, we unite ourselves to the wishes of each migrant who carries in a backpack a burden of hope and a hunger for justice
Solidarity is the strength of the excluded
On 20 December, the United Nations commemorates the International Day of Human Solidarity, which seeks to reaffirm the commitment of nations to build a world of greater solidarity and peace, respecting diversity and promoting initiatives aimed at reducing poverty. However, how can we talk about solidarity when every day we see the success of individualism and injustice towards migrants in the media and in the homes, shelters, refuges and canteens for migrants?
“My father was a wandering Aramaic, who went down to Egypt and went to take refuge there with a few people” Dt 26.6
Christian believers have a biblical heritage, marked by migration or displacement of families and peoples. From chapter 12 of the book of Genesis a whole story of migration begins
New section on the Franciscan Migrant for Network website
“Para Migrantes” brings resources and advice to people on the journey, in the hopes that we can help reduce some of the risks involved in migration and mitigate some of the potential for harm on the way.
Statement on overcrowding in Polideportivo Xonaca, Puebla City.
During the visit of the Seminar’s coordinator to these facilities, she verified that within the migrant population there are pregnant women, as well as around 80 boys and girls, some of whom are complaining of dehydration and upper respiratory conditions caused by low temperatures, as well as the failure on the part of the state authorities to provide the minimum conditions that would guarantee the the protection of life, health, and integrity, mainly for the population of children, adolescents and pregnant women.
“Do justice to the orphan and the widow, and love the stranger by giving him bread and clothing.” Dt 10.18
On December 10th, 1948 the UN established the commemoration of Human Rights Day, motivated by the Declaration of Human Rights. Its context is the end of the Second World War, marking that humanity would “never again” violate the rights of each human who inhabits this common home.
“On the Way…” from the Franciscan Network on Migration, in Pocast format
We want to offer our listeners fresh and novel stories of this human problem that brings us all together as a society, inspired by reflections on fraternity and social friendship.
An inclusive approach to concretely transform situations of pain and anguish into hope
December 3rd, we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly.
“Human Rights and Migration” training held in person in Honduras
The alliance between Franciscans International and the Franciscan Network for Migrants created this training which was offered in 2021. It was divided into two stages: 6 virtual modules and 4 face-to-face days.
Members of RFM-Honduras participate in a monitoring visit in El Triunfo- Choluteca
This monitoring visit was organized by Sr. Gelsomina Rodas, Daniel de Caritas and Olma professor, with the purpose of understanding the harsh reality experienced by people who are migrating. Sr. Marcela, Ana Victoria and Sr. Nyzelle visited the Nicaraguan border with Honduras with a team from Red Clamor Honduras
World Day of the Poor: Love the immigrant (stranger), because you were an immigrant in Egypt
In the practice of Jesus, we find the same Spirit that moved him to liberate and heal the excluded and most affected groups of Jewish society
Virtual Training “Migration and Human Rights 2021” has been completed
The Franciscan Network for Migrants (RFM) and Franciscans International, the NGO of the Franciscan Family before the United Nations, concluded on October 29, the first part of the Training: “Migration and Human Rights 2021”.
“Because I was hungry” … International Food Day
In this reality of the Central American peoples, there are specific faces, names, families and homes that, when they find themselves in a state of hunger must forcibly migrate. In the thousands who are forced to migrate from the countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua
The mission of the Church: Go out to meet the migrant
On Friday, October 8, I participated together with Sister Ludivina Hernández, a member of the Sisters of the Holy Rosary, in the aission organized with Red Clamor Honduras Chapter, near Ocotepeque, Honduras and along the route taken by those who undertake forced migration.
October team building visits
This month the executive secretary of the Franciscan Network on Migration and other team members had the opportunity to visit several of our collaborating organizations in Mexico and the United States.
RFM Mexico Team meets in Cholula, Puebla
In order to consolidate relationships between team members, identify action steps and structure the Mexico team for 2022, the RFM-Team Mexico met on September 27, 28 and 29 at the San Gabriel Convent in Cholula
Saint Francis of Assisi: A brother of men and women on the way
This disciple of Jesus lived and acted in a way that today gives us a light for these times of structural injustice that produces large impoverished majorities, destruction of our common home, and violence against the innocent. It therefore generates a large number of forced migrants to leave their “homeland”.
Leadership as Service: members of the RFM were trained with a diploma course of CEBITEPAL – CELAM
In August we had the pleasure of being part of the “Leadership and Community Development” course given by CIBETEPAL-CELAM. More than 50 laity, religious, priests and bishops participated with the purpose of growing in our leadership to serve our communities.
RFM – El Salvador held a training and informative meeting on the reality of returned migrants
In this event, we welcomed Rosa María Arias, who currently works as Coordinator in the Center of Attention for returned children and adolescents of the ISNA (Salvadoran Institute for the Integral Development of Children and Adolescents).
We demand unrestricted respect for the human rights of people in the context of human mobility within Mexican territory
We, the Franciscan Network on Migration (RFM), as well as various groups and civil organizations that defend the human rights of migrants, have monitored the detentions and deportations against people in Mcallen, Texas directed to the El Ceibo, Guatemala border, as well as also from different places in Mexico to Villahermosa and Tenosique, Tabasco
Red Clamor Communiqué on the migratory situation in Mexico
We, the Latin American Church Network and Caribbean Migration, Refuge, Displacement and Trafficking (CLAMOR) of the Latin American Episcopal Council, which brings together more than 600 organizations of the Catholic Church in Latin America and the Caribbean, have seen in recent days the development of the National Institute of Migration and of the National Guard in the south of the Mexican Republic´s operations to contain migrants in the city of Tapachula, Chiapas.
Message of Pope Francis: Towards an ever wider “we”
In the Encyclical Fratelli Tutti, I expressed a concern and a hope that remain uppermost in my thoughts: “Once this health crisis passes, our worst response would be to plunge even more deeply into feverish consumerism and new forms of egotistic self-preservation. God willing, after all this, we will think no longer in terms of ‘them’ and ‘those’, but only ‘us’” (No. 35).
Tertulia Franciscana: Franciscan Network on Migration – Colombia Team
And I practiced mercy with them! This is the horizon of the Franciscan Network on Migration’s Colombia Team (RFM Colombia Team) which presented its project, services and activities in the gathering of the Franciscan Family, Colombia, last Monday, August 23, 2021.
Franciscans International trains members of the Franciscan Network on Migration
With the presentation of the first module, “The Franciscan roots of work with human mobility,” facilitated by Fr. Eduardo Jazo of the Regular Third Order and member of the Board of Directors of Franciscans International and Fr. José Luis González, SJ of the Jesuit Migration Network Central America and North America, the first session of the RFM 2021 training was inaugurated. This training service is offered online, synchronously, through the platform Zoom.
Guatemala: The role of family remittances today
From the macroeconomic point of view, remittances are fundamental for the monetary and exchange stability of Guatemala. This has been reflected in the annual statistics of the Banco de Guatemala for the last five years
Indigenous peoples search for a dignified life in migration
In the world there are more than 5,000 indigenous peoples and the vast majority with a fragile guarantee of human rights, are among the most vulnerable groups in migration, with strong incentives to flee their territories because of extreme poverty, loss of ancestral lands due to ecological, climatic and social crises.
Emergency Services for Caravans, Volunteer Training at Casa Peregrina Santo Hermano Pedro Shelter, Guatemala
Seven training sessions and workshops were offered, each one with different tools for implementation of our emergency plan, with the aim of protecting and accompanying migrant brothers and sisters who arrive at our shelter.
Campaign: “La vida no es una mercancía, se trata de personas”
July 30 is the international day against human trafficking and many organizations have joined the campaign Campaign: “Life Is Not a Commodity on Sale”…
30 July: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
“Victims’ Voices Lead the Way”. This year’s theme puts victims of human trafficking at the centre of the campaign and will highlight the importance of listening to and learning from survivors of human trafficking.
La 72 presents “On My Way”, a migrant people’s newspaper
The popular migrant newspaper is an initiative born out of volunteer and comes to life in the hands and ideas of the people who live in La 72.
Migration and violence for being from the LGBTI community
In recent years there have been many legal advances for the LGBTI community: agreements, decrees, and laws that assure respect for the most basic rights of people who belong to the LGBTI community, so that they can exercise and enjoy their freedoms without any repercussions.
In Central America, migration is forced and deportations are violent
It is important to emphasize that the “deportation” of migrants generates violence to the dignity and psychosocial structure of the person throughout the process, from the moment of capture, in the detention centers where minors and adults are kept, to the treatment when expelled from the destination country, all the way back to their home countries, where they are received with much the same kind of treatment…
Central America’s migration exodus
The context of migration before the Central American exodus caravans. Human mobility is one of the most visible consequences of the globalized world, the product of a neoliberal model in which the poorest seem to have no place.
African, Extracontinental and Afro-descent Migration in Latin America
New migration trends are emerging in Latin America. Migrants of African and extra-continental origin are increasingly visible, before and during the pandemic.
The Franciscan Network on Migration trains migrant houses and support teams on proposal writing and donor relations
The Franciscan Network for Migrants offered a workshop with the purpose of providing the local RFM teams with the information and tools necessary to apply for funding and administer grants
US Migration Policy Under Biden: Signs of Hope and Cause for Concern
As a candidate Biden promised, and seemed poised early on, to chart a new path toward a more people-centered reform agenda. As president he has taken many hopeful steps, but still leans on deterrence and criminalization to a degree that is concerning.
RFM participates in interactive dialogue with The Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants
This June 24, the Franciscan Network for Migrants, through its Advocacy Committee has collaborated with Franciscans International together with 30 other organizations have made a joint statement on the reality of migration in Mexico, Guatemala and the United States....
International Justice and Protection of The Rights of Migrants
With all of this and the fear that seized them, we traveled to Palenque where they had been captured by actors in organized crime, to file the complaint.
Honduras: Psychosocial Intervention in Post-Eta and Iota Shelters
The project is coordinated by RFM-Honduras team, supported and managed by the Coordination Committee of the Franciscan Network on Migration in coordination with the Faculty of Sciences Psychological the National Autonomous University of Honduras…
World Environment Day: The permanent challenge of caring for and defending our Common Home
Caring for and protecting our Common Home is an unavoidable responsibility. Pope Francis calls us to assume reciprocally and unequivocally this ecological commitment to be able to give a new meaning to our existence…
Mexico fails to comply with the recommendations of the Committee on the elimination of Racial Discrimination
We call on Mexico to implement the recommendations that various human rights mechanisms have made in the context of the protection of human rights of migrants, asylum seekers and human right defenders that work with them.
Serving in a Franciscan community “soup kitchen”
We carry out this work with respect, acceptance, dedication and generosity. Not only do we address the merely economic aspect of satisfying an immediate need, on the contrary, we establish signs of the presence of God all loving among the brothers and sisters who dare to ask for help from our house, which is also their house…
Migration: a meeting of views, knowledge and cultures
Cultural diversity has been a palpable reality in migration since the beginning of humanity. Consider a recent example from the history of the American continent, in what we now know as countries with a government structure based on a democratic rule of law, the USA and Canada of North America…
Migrant woman: an indelible mark for history.
The Migrant Woman is a symbol of courage, of risk, and of struggles. They are entrepreneurs. They leave traces in their wake. Yes, indelible marks in history. They leave indelible marks in history, and for the whole world. But they are called “refugees” and they are “migrants,” without names or faces, as if they were all the same…
Annual Report 2020
We are pleased to share with you our 2020 annual report. Thanks to the dedication of all those who participate in and support the Franciscan Network on Migration, we were able to accomplish much in 2020…
Labor: The Fallacy of the American Dream
The Covid-19 pandemic demonstarted that 74% of undocumented migrants in the United States were essential workers (Center for Migration Studies, 2020), workers who, for the most part, lack the minimum labor rights that any citizen or documented worker enjoys. These include the right to health care, the granting of work permits, and basic health and safely measures that prevent the spread of the coronavirus, among others…
JPIC-OFM launches the Franciscan Network on Migration.
The idea of the Franciscan Network on Migration emerged in April 2018 during the annual JPIC Course in Guadalajara, Mexico, whose central theme was “Migration: Franciscan causes, walls and perspectives” The work of La 72, a shelter migrants on the southern border of...
Earth Day Reflection on Ecological Debt and Human Mobility
As we acknowledge and commemorate Earth Day this week, we should be mindful of the new refugees who must seek higher ground – sometimes literally as sea levels rise, but also metaphorically as desert soil often cannot provide enough food and water to support human needs…
Tearing Down the Walls
“Unlike refugees, migrants can return to their homes”
“Migrants that fled the effects of climate change did so not out of choice but out of the need to escape conditions that could not provide for even the most fundamental of their rights.”
The Clamor Network presents the mapping of ecclesial human mobility services in Latin America and the Caribbean
These data are updated as of March 2021 and people in a situation of human mobility as well as pastoral agents will be able to access detailed information on accommodation, food, health, clothing, legal advice, spiritual assistance, integration, among many others.
Franciscan Network on Migration: Plans for 2021
The Franciscan Network on Migration (RFM) is pleased to share some of our plans for 2021. These plans include collaboration with Franciscans International…
Tearing Down the Walls
Migrants are ruining national economies and should not be allowed to work”
Politicians and others have often tried to demonize so-called ‘economic’ migrants in order to rally support for xenophobic policies or create a scapegoat during economic downturns…
Public Statement Regarding the Murder of Victoria Salazar
The Franciscan Network for Migrants from the US – Mexico – Central America, firmly repudiates the events that occurred on March 27 of this year in the Tumbe Ka neighborhood of Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico..
Tearing Down the Walls
The reality of where individuals choose or are able to migrate to is much different…
Water Stress: Resistance, Struggle and Forced Migration
As human beings, our very existence depends on the planet we inhabit, where everything is connected and integrated into one single community of life.
Racial Discrimination Against Haitians in the US Migration Enforcement
An important place to focus on in this work is U.S. immgration policy, which targets Haitians and migrants from other majority black countries for highly discriminatory treatment. There is no evidence that Biden “gets” it.
Tearing Down the Walls
Did you know that all migrants are NOT the same? It is incongruous to recognize all #migrants as being the same. This type of thinking can lead to different types of negative actions, such as violence, discrimination and impunity, making their living conditions increasingly precarious…
March 8: Migrant Women
This March 8, from the drama of the migration of women, we demand mobility based on human rights, gender equity and equality, for migration policies that respect the dignity of each migrant and for the resurgence of justice in the countries of origin.
New migration dynamics in Northern Central America, Mexico and the United States
This advocacy diagnosis combines these testimonies with a review of the most recent information from relevant literature, as well as with interviews with other key actors…
Franciscans International: New Migration Dynamics in Northern Central America, Mexico and the United States
This work is the result of a close cooperation between Franciscans International and the Red Franciscana Para Migrantes, combing a review of relevant literature with firsthand testimonies from Franciscan shelters in the region.
United in prayer and reflection against human trafficking
The members of the Franciscan Network for Migrants gathered to celebrate together the World Day called by Pope Francis on the occasion of the liturgical memory of Saint Josephine Bakhita.
Migration: A Profound Daily Suffering that Rises to Heaven
In the first days of the year 2021, we have been surprised again by the caravans of migrants, approximately 9000 people, mainly from Honduras, including hundreds of underage children…
Migrant People: A Path to Conversion
In this experience that God has given me to share, I found Jesus Christ, in the gaze of the most needy, of the most vulnerable. It begins in a classroom on the subject of missionary spirituality within the Franciscan context. While watching a video about La 72, I first approached what was a non-existent reality for me. This reality has now become a significant part of my life…
Press release regarding the latest exodus of Honduran migrants
Upon learning of the departure of a new caravan of Honduran migrants, on January 11, the Vice Foreign Minister of Guatemala, Eduardo Hernández, stated that Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Mexico together reiterated their foreign policy commitment to a safe, orderly and consistent migration process, where people’s safety is the priority.
International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking: An Economy without Human Trafficking
The International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking 2021 brings into the spotlight one of the main causes of human trafficking: the dominant economic model of our time, whose limits and contradictions are exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Volunteering in service of migrants and refugees
The Franciscan Network on Migration (RFM) extends a warm invitation to all those who are interested in serving at migrant and refugee shelters associated with our network in Guatemala, Mexico and the United States.
December reflections in La 72 Migrant and Refugee Shelter
En navidad y año nuevo, usualmente se piensa estar en compañía de los seres queridos y de la familia. Sin embargo, hay situaciones en las que no puede ser de esta manera. En las siguientes líneas se pretende hacer visible la experiencia de vivir estas fechas, desde la propia voz de las personas que viven en La 72.
En Camino: Christmas in “La 72 and Launch of the Volunteer Campaign
From the Franciscan Network for Migrants, we invite you to participate in the celebration, “Christmas at La 72” and the launch of the 2021 volunteer campaign. We are also taking part as an organization that will receive volunteers during the next year .
When a new life arrives, there is joy
Sometimes when you hear about migrants, you think the worst, but in reality this is not the case. Today we want to share the greatest and most sacred thing that exists in the world, which is life itself, as a gift from God to the world, to society and the family.
Tearing Down the Walls Challenging myths about migration from a human rights perspective
This publication aims at deconstructing predominant myths about migration and human mobility more generally, from a human rights perspective. In doing so, the paper reflects the lived experiences of Franciscans and our other partners who are focused on and support migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, and victims of human trafficking.
E-launch of “Tearing Down the Walls”, an invitation from Franciscans International
We are delighted to invite you to this virtual launch of Franciscans International’s new publication on migration.
Hurricane Eta’s Destruction in Chiapas and Honduras, RFM Teams Respond
Fray Trino Espinal, member of the Franciscan Network on Migration’s coordinating team, is out in Culmi and has been participating in the assessment of the Eta damage.
Welcoming our Migrant Brothers and Sisters: Root Causes and Opportunities
Migration is a social reality in the history of humanity and inherent to it is the right to development and improvement of living conditions, influenced by multiple factors, such as the following:
Migrants: people we know, our neighbors, our friends, our brothers and sisters
World Migrant Week is a week in which the church intensifies many activities to continue promoting the message of recognition of the rights of migrants with celebrations and actions such as Eucharist, conferences, courses, festivals, radio programs and live talks.
Guatemala, Migrant Week, September 1-6
The Pilgrim House of the Migrant “Brother Saint Peter” invites you to celebrate Migrant Week, from September 1st to 6th, with a series of initiatives that you can participate in online. “Like Jesus Christ, forced to flee. Welcome, protect, promote and integrate the internally displaced…
COVID 19: The wall of death for migrants in Mexico
When the health emergency was declared in Mexico by the Secretary of Health, various agreements and protocols were implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19. In this context, on April 16, 2020, the First Administrative Judge in Mexico City set an important precedent at the national level by ordering the administrative authorities, including the National Institute of Migration, to take the necessary measures for the protection of the life and health of migrants, asylum seekers or international protection applicants in the immigration stations.
X Anniversary of the massacre in San Fernando Tamaulipas
Every year on August 23, La 72, Migrant and Refugee Shelter commemorates the 10th anniversary of the massacre of 72 migrants in San Fernando Tamaulipas. Each year we raise our voices for those who can no longer do so, with hearts full of pain and anger. Their memory is not forgotten, and our voices are ready to continue demanding justice.
Another brutal attack on migrants, and once again, the authorities won’t respond
To all Civil Society Organizations
To the Municipal, State and Federal Authorities:
During the time that we have been working for migrant human rights, we have denounced the acts of violence exercised against them, both by common criminals as well as by the organized and arbitrary acts of the authorities. During this time of the public health emergency of COVID-19, the migratory flow has decreased; however, violence on the migratory route, which translates into assaults, robberies, sexual violence and kidnapping, has not.
End the climate of harassment towards migrants on the southern border
To all Civil Society Organizations
To the Municipal, State and Federal Authorities:
As the team responsible for accompanying migrants in La 72, a refugee home for migrants, we express our outrage and make known through this statement the prevailing situation in the surroundings of our shelter in Tenosique, Tabasco and at the same time we want to bring to public awareness a series of humiliations and harassment and the violation of human rights of our Central American brothers.
The Franciscan Network on Migration in Honduras and Clamor Network of Honduras Collaborate to Offer an Online Course on Internal Displacement
On August 14, the “Internal Displacement with Pastoral Orientations” course began as a collaborative effort of the Clamor Network of Honduras, the Franciscan Network on Migration in Honduras (RFM-H), the Human Mobility Pastoral Program (PMH). ), the Jesuit Reflection, Research and Communication Team (ERIC), Caritás of Honduras, JPIC-CONFEREH (JPIC- Conference of Religious in Honduras), and the Social Pastoral in Honduras. Among the course participants were people from Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala and Peru.
San Francisco cafeteria for migrants in Mazatlán, a response to migration in times of COVID
To speak of migration or human mobility is to speak of one of the great challenges of humanity and, if to this we add the health problem of Covid -19, we are facing a truly titanic and uncertain situation, since this entails adding to the already difficult task of mobility, the challenge of public health checkpoints, the closure of some shelters and humanitarian aid stations, limited hospital clinics and a population frightened by excessive information about the Coronavirus.
Online conferences on DACA
One of the immediate immigration issues that we, in the United States, face is DACA or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. This program was created by President Obama for these young individuals, also known as Dreamer, through an executive order in June 2012. There are more than 600,000 dreamers in this country and DACA under the present administration this program is being challenged.
Rogue State: The U.S. and immigrant detention in the time of COVID
On July 22, a federal court in Canada declared that sending refugees back to the United States violates those refugees’ fundamental rights: “The Court found that sending refugee claimants back to the U.S. violates their Charter right to liberty and security of the person because many of them are arbitrarily detained in the US in immigration detention centres or county jails, often in atrocious conditions and in clear contravention of international standards.”
Winds of Freedom: reflection from La 72, in the time of the pandemic
During these difficult times, we find solace and inspiration in life’s simple pleasures. From La 72, amidst the suffering and hardship, joy and companionship grow out of creating and sharing age-old traditions.
Humanitarian assistance provided to migrants who seek shelter there
Our shelter in the Province of San Felipe de Jesus has a long history of dedication to the protection and wellbeing of migrants in the southern Mexico region. In this video, La 72 staff describe humanitarian assistance provided to migrants who seek shelter there.
Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants
Presented by Armando González
Thank you, Madam President,
Franciscans International, PBI and the Franciscan Network on Migration, greet the report on the right to freedom of association of migrants and their defenders of the Rapporteur Special.
The coronavirus crisis – a turning point
Spiritual orientation can also provide guidance. In this context, we could draw inspiration from those who follow the guidance of Francis and Clare of Assisi. While they lived in another century and faced other crises, social problems, and epidemics, their work may still shape our present actions. According to his own words in the Testament, Francis finds his way out of this personal life crisis because he dared to overcome the “social distancing” towards lepers imposed by society and the church at that time through friendship and solidarity.
On the way … first season
During the month of June, every Thursday, a series of online interviews were carried out on Facebook with members of the Franciscan Network on Migration (RFM) in collaboration with “La ventana de pazybien.es” (The window of pazybien.es). It was an innovative experience where topics on migration were addressed based on the experience and testimony of the guest speakers.
La 72 Demands Covid-19 tests for all staff, volunteers and guests
Due to the high-risk situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, as many of the other houses for migrants, we initiated protocol to address this situation, ensuring the well-being and health of the population to whom we provide humanitarian support and defense of human rights.
On the way… testimonies from the Franciscan Network on Migration
June 4, next Thursday, we will begin a series of online interviews “on the way” with members of the Franciscan Network on Migration in collaboration with “la ventana de pazybien.es.” We will address some issues on migration based on the experience and testimony of each guest speaker, who is involved in the protection, defense, and care of migrants in one way or another.
Franciscan Network on Migration – USA
The Network organized the first meeting for members of the Franciscan Network on Migration-USA in April. Twenty-nine individuals representing parishes and congregations including friars, sisters and lay workers joined in online
THE FRANCISCAN EXPERIENCE & RESPONSE: COVID19 & BEYOND
The participants talked about how the COVID19 pandemic has exacerbated social and economic divisions in society. There is a fear that the pandemic will see more deaths from poverty than from the virus itself. The lockdowns and the economic slowdown have seen a disproportionate loss of income amongst those living at the peripheries. The immediate need we face is the call for food and safe shelter.
Deportation Update, April 2020
In April 2020 the US began immediate deportations of people who try to cross the border illegally without any due process. They are not receiving applications for asylum. Without reference to their nationality, they are being delivered to INM or dropped off in Mexico and the INM picks them up off the street and then holds them in detention.
RFM Teams and Shelters during COVID-19. Honduras
During COVID-19, the Franciscan Network’s team in Honduras has focused on providing humanitarian aid and developing a “Laudato Si” project to promote self-sufficiency in their communities.
RFM Teams and Shelters during COVID-19. Tenosique, Tabasco, Mexico
The 72 Home-Shelter for Migrants is under quarantine. There are some people who entered after the quarantine began, but staff require them to remain isolated for 14 days, in the area that once housed unaccompanied minors.
RFM Teams and Shelters during COVID-19. Salto De Agua, Mexico.
The Salto de Agua migrant house in normal times can accommodate up to 200 people but very tight. The base team report that there are not now many migrants passing through their region. The house is still open during the pandemic, although the town has a COVID-19 case detected.
RFM Teams and Shelters during COVID-19. Mazatlán, México
The Comedor San Francisco continues to provide food to people. However, since they cannot feed them together in the dining room, they are distributing bags with basic foods: cakes, sandwiches, tuna or sardines, canned goods, cookies, bottled water, cooked eggs, etc. People are not allowed to stay there onsite.
RFM Teams and Shelters during COVID-19. Guatemala City
Given the restrictions established by the Guatemalan government, there are currently no people housed at the Mezquital refuge. The last people to stay included a family from Honduras and 3 men from San Pedro Sula and Olancho. This was on March 14. The restrictions are for the protection of staff and volunteers. They will evaluate these rules once the restrictions are lifted.
RFM Teams and Shelters during COVID-19. Piedras Negras, Mexico
The Frontera Digna shelter currently houses 34 adults and 14 children. The shelter provides 3 meals a day and will allow guests to stay as long as needed. However, the shelter cannot accept new people. In recent days there have not been many people arriving from the south.
Protect Migrants and Refugees during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Slowing the spread of COVID-19 requires that everyone be included in prevention and protection strategies, especially the most vulnerable, including migrants and refugees. This pandemic is a public health crisis that brings home how interconnected we are. It is
our collective responsibility to act rapidly and in solidarity.
Mexico’s detention network is human rights disaster -and U.S. policy is making it worse
On Friday April 3, a fire broke out during a protest in a makeshift facility, located in Piedras Negras, Mexico, which is being used to detain people deported from the United States.
Communique from La 72 migrant and refugee shelter
It is with great pain and rage we denounce and deeply resent the death last March 31, 2020 of a Guatemalan migrant at the Tenosique Migration Station.
Franciscan Network in Honduras Aims to Raise Consciousness and Take Action to Confront the Critical Migration Situation
The Franciscan Network on Migration’s team in Honduras (RFM-Honduras) is composed of Franciscan and other religious and lay people who minister in different areas of the country. Members of RFM-Honduras represent some of the initial organizers of the Network and over the past year they have worked to consolidate their team
Franciscan Network Launches Membership
With our vision to create a network of Franciscans and franciscan-hearted people who are working on migration issues, the Franciscan Network on Migration is pleased to announce the launch of our formal membership.
Migrant Posadas | advent 2023
Hello! Advent is a special time full of love, joy and family togetherness. One of the most deeply rooted traditions in the different cultures around the world are Christmas posadas. These posadas are community celebrations that allow us to share happiness and the...
RFM Annual Assembly 2023: A spiritual and meaningful work meeting
The RFM 2023 Annual Assembly took place at the Monte Alvernia Retreat House, located in San Salvador, El Salvador, from September 20th to 26th. The Assembly was attended by members of the Franciscan Network for Migrants (RFM) from the United States, Mexico, Guatemala,...
Franciscan Border Encounter in El Paso / Juarez
The Franciscan Network for Migrants–USA team visited the US southern border once again between November 2nd and 6th, in order to gain greater understanding and compassion for our migrant brothers and sisters who have crossed into the United States, and those who are waiting in Mexico.
An update on the RFM Panama team’s outstanding advances and collaboration with external organizations
In Panama, the Franciscan Network for Migrants continues to be committed to serving people who pass through this country, raising awareness of the migratory crisis and raising awareness of Panamanian society regarding this reality.
A story of love and loyalty in the midst of migration: Benito the migrant dog
For Feast of our Patron Saint Francis of Assisi, we share a moving story that demonstrates the importance of animals in our lives.
Liturgical Guide: Franciscan Triduum
With this Triduum of celebration and reflection of the Franciscan festivals, we hope you find a practical guide to pray, to recognize the power of community prayer, and that it serves as spiritual support and unites you in community of faith providing hope and joy in your service and Franciscan walk.
Members of the RFM participate in “Knowledge of the Migrant Ministry” experience
The Socio-Pastoral Observatory of Human Mobility of Mesoamerica and the Caribbean (OSMECA) led the training experience entitled, "Knowledge of Migrant Pastoral Care (COPAMI): Knowledge management for the strengthening of pastoral practices with people in transit"...
Franciscan Network at the Regional NGO Assembly on Migration Trends in Latin America and the Caribbean
On July 28, 2023, the Regional Assembly of Civil Organizations on Migration Trends in Latin America and the Caribbean was held in Panama, and the RFM was represented by René Flores from RFM-Panama and Beatriz Calixto from RFM-Mexico. Most of the 15 participants were...
Promoting human rights, combating human trafficking
In commemoration of the World Day Against Trafficking of Persons, on July 29th the Franciscan Network for Migrants hosted a conversation on the ways that frontline workers are promoting human rights by addressing human trafficking. Moderated by Fr. Jaime Campos ofm,...
Panama Team Moves Ahead!
The RFM-Panama team continues with its work, dedication, and efforts to be messengers of peace and good in their country and defenders of the dignity of migrants who pass through the isthmus. In recent months, the monthly celebration of the migrant's mass at the...