Reunification Realities: Navigating the Emotional Business of Family Reunion

Behind the Scenes of Nostalgia and Lucrative Longing in the World of Reunification Programs

In the scorching Arizona desert of 1996, Enrique embarked on a journey carrying only the dreams of his 21-year-old self. His quest for the American dream led to sacrifices—thirst, fear, and deceit by the smuggler who promised a better life. Yet, after overcoming these trials, he established roots in the United States, where his four children were born. However, the cost was profound—he couldn't bid farewell to his father, reuniting with his mother, Georgina, after a staggering 26 years.

This poignant narrative is just one among tens of thousands of undocumented Mexican migrants who maintain strong ties with their families. Comforting their souls through remittances, they witness their parents' aging via photos or video calls. When presented with an opportunity for family reunification, the decision is unequivocal.

The success of these reunification programs lies in their emotional appeal. They offer a chance for parents to visit the U.S., regardless of their immigration status, turning nostalgia into a profitable enterprise. Our three-year investigation into 37 programs, transformed by the pandemic's challenges, has revealed 57 active programs in the U.S. and Mexico. However, community voices insist that many more operate, lacking rules or transparency, exploiting the yearning to see one's parents again.

In recent years, government-operated programs have dwindled from 16 to seven, with only four initiating new groups. The disinterest of state governments has given rise to opaque and exploitative organizations, taking advantage of migrants. Reunification, intended as a humanitarian act, clashes with a Mexican government that views migrants as a gold mine. Despite contributing more to Mexico than oil or tourism, migrants remain neglected.

As the present administration slashes funding for migrant support programs, private organizations step in, capitalizing on migrants' perennial desire to bring their parents to the U.S. Despite pleas for state support to create transparent, publicly regulated programs, activists face an uphill battle.

"The Family Reunification Act is recognized by international human rights agreements. Conducting these processes for profit distorts their original intent, increasing the risk of fraud," warns activist Marco Antonio Castillo.

The emotional weight of family reunification, a beacon of hope for lonely migrants, has been distorted into a lucrative opportunity. Some groups charge migrant children $5,000 to $10,000, even resorting to holding parents' identification hostage for payment.

Enterprises like Nueva Visión Latinoamérica exemplify the controversy. Once a migrant organization, it shifted to a registered business in the U.S., charging $160 for parent registration and $450 for visa processing. Complaints abound, yet the company persists, expanding its reach to Central American migrants.

Our investigation reveals that private family reunification costs range from $2,000 to $2,500, excluding airfare. While this may seem steep, the responsibility of arranging, aiding, and caring for elderly parents during the process is more significant than imagined.

The visa application process, a hurdle for many, is streamlined for those enrolled in reunification programs. Despite consulate rejections due to misinformation, participation in these programs benefits the elderly, justifying the costs.

As we delve into the controversial world of family reunification, the emotional and financial toll becomes apparent. The nostalgia-driven business, once a beacon of hope, now stands at the crossroads of humanity and profit.