Jeanette Vizguerra is a fixture in the Denver justice community. Along with her three young children, we often see her at rallies, hear her speak at monthly vigils at our local detention center, and witness her tell her story at the state capitol to influence policy change. For the last 15 years, Jeanette has worked hard to bring more justice to Colorado- for workers, for immigrants, for families.

Many Unitarian Universalists in the Denver area have had the pleasure of spending time with Jeanette, inviting her to speak in our congregations or share her story with our social justice ministries. Over the years, she has helped us to better understand the ins and outs of the immigration system, what it’s like to live with the constant threat of separation from one’s family, and the impossible choices often faced by immigrants in this country. She has inspired us with her courage and her passion. And she has become a friend and mentor to many of us, when some of our own families were experiencing the threat of deportation, detention, or separation. 

One week ago, President Obama issued an executive order that would stop the deportations of millions of undocumented immigrants. We asked several justice partners and UUs to share their thoughts, especially those who would be directly affected by this administrative action.

Whether or not you observe Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to think about families and communities who can now stay together. While many of the reflections below mirror the sentiments of people across the country who had hoped this action would include more people, there is recognition that there are glimmers of hope for many families who will now no longer live under fear of deportation.