By Édgar Velasco

The history of humanity is deeply linked to migration and so it has always been. Anyone who doubts it should simply "go back two or three generations to realize that we are descended from people who had to emigrate. It is part of the human condition," so said the former Uruguayan president during his visit to the Father Chava Refectory in Tijuana. He had gone there as a result of a meeting with representatives of the civil society groups operating in the migration sector. Speaking of those who work in this area, he said: "We cannot but thank the people who undertake to manage this phenomenon, which, on the other hand, is not a new problem."

The visit of the former Uruguayan President is taking place in the context of the massive influx of Haitian migrants at the border between Mexico and the United States. Former President Mujica helped at the Salesian refectory like so many other volunteers, serving food to migrants, and then took his place at table to share a meal with them. After the meal there were speeches. Leonardo Fernández said that "migration is not a problem, but an opportunity, a gift we receive as a society that allows us to remember where we came from."

Fr Felipe Plascencia, Rector of the Salesian Community in Tijuana, said in his speech that the story of Tijuana "is deeply linked to migration. There are recent immigrants, but also those of one, two and even three generations." Then he added: "the citizens of Tijuana are generous and immediately helped with food, clothing and whatever was needed. Help is not lacking."

"Never in its history has humanity been so rich in material resources and so avidly selfish" the former president said. He also warned: "I do not intend to keep my mouth shut. If we are unable to change the situation, we can at least call more people to join and to work together. One thing my grandmother taught me: the only struggle you lose is the one you leave."

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