“For me, as a Mexican, it drives me insane that they’re losing these young kids.”

Eric Beltran is a transfer Animation major at UWM. While the situation at the U.S. and Mexico border is one he’s familiar with, the recent developments and lack of action on the part of the current administration have led to his frustration. His personal family ties make the issue one he’s well informed about, and hoping gets solved.

Liz: What is an issue that you’re passionate about?

Eric: I’m passionate about the situation at the border. Specifically, what’s happening with the children. News stations are reporting that they’re losing kids out of nowhere. For me, as a Mexican, it drives me insane that they’re losing these young kids. It’s mind boggling to me.

I’m really glad I’m fortunate enough to have this life, but seeing people not have the same opportunities makes me mad.

I was visiting down south of Mexico city. It’s where my parents started off when they’re young. I have a lot to look forward to when I go. It is not a tourist attraction. I want to be grounded with my experience and my heritage.

How would you like to see the situation improve? What steps do you think our country could take to get there?

The obvious answer is the knock down the wall, but that obviously won’t happen. What I would suggest would be to regulate who can come and who can’t. To get to know the immigrants coming here, because more often than not they’re not here to hurt anyway. They’re just looking for a better life for their kids.

What do you think the Biden administration could do right now to improve the situation?

During the beginning of this administration there was talk about improving the relationship between America and Mexico. But everytime it got diluted. Overall, they’re communication with the Mexican immigration system is more up in the air than just a straight ahead path. I wish they would work on it. Do something, instead of just ignoring it.

My parents were immigrants. They understand the struggles. If you’re failing on the legalization aspect of the issue, then something is really wrong.