The southern border has recently been at the center of controversy following measures adopted by Texas, including barbed wire and floating barriers in the Rio Grande. These measures have made the process even more difficult for migrants seeking political asylum, particularly with the use of the CBP One app.
During the event “Hate Escalates at the Border: The Road to 2024,” organized by Ethnic Media Services, the situation at the Texas border was discussed. An emerging lawsuit against CBP One was highlighted, which, according to critics, limits migrants’ opportunities to apply for asylum. This discussion is intertwined with projections for the 2024 presidential election.
Gianna Borroto, a representative of the American Immigration Council, commented on restrictions at the U.S.-Mexico border under the Title 42 policy, which was implemented in response to the COVID-19 public health crisis. Although this policy ended in May of this year, the use of the CBP One app has become mandatory for scheduling appointments at ports of entry. Borroto questioned the reliability of the app and described its functionality as flawed.
Recently, the American Immigration Council, in partnership with other organizations, filed a class-action lawsuit in California against the Biden administration. The lawsuit challenges the exclusion of asylum seekers who do not have an appointment through CBP One. This technological barrier, they argue, violates U.S. laws that guarantee the right to seek asylum without obstruction.
Borroto emphasized the difficulties applicants face in accessing the app, which requires a smartphone and an internet connection. In many cases, such as that of Natasha, a Haitian migrant, the lack of electricity and internet access has prevented her from obtaining an appointment despite months of trying. In addition, the app supports only three languages, excluding those who speak other languages.
The situation at the border, as described by sociologist Manuel Ortiz, has worsened. Measures that have been adopted, such as floating barriers, have had tragic consequences. Ortiz also pointed to dangerous practices by smugglers who instruct migrants to cross under extreme conditions.
Meanwhile, Cal Jillson, a scholar at Southern Methodist University, reflected on the history of racism in the United States. According to Jillson, current reactions toward migrants are part of a long tradition of resistance to immigrants, a reality reflected in the rhetoric of both political parties.
Asylum is a fundamental right, and the tools used to access it must be fair and accessible. The situation at the southern border reflects the challenges and tensions the United States faces in its relationship with migration. It is imperative to seek equitable and humanitarian solutions.
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