The city of Aurora, Colorado, is facing a dichotomy in its approach to Venezuelan immigrants. While the school system is striving to accommodate the influx of new students from Venezuela and Colombia by providing translation and support, the city government has vowed not to spend any money helping newcomers. Rumors of Venezuelan gangs taking over the city have been spread by the mayor and even magnified by former President and current GOP candidate Donald Trump, who has promised to deport migrants if elected.
Life as a newcomer in the United States in 2024 is complicated by the polarized attitudes towards immigrants. Many migrants came seeking better lives for their families but now question whether the US is a good place to raise their children. The fear and discrimination faced by immigrants in Aurora are evident in everyday interactions, such as a trip to the grocery store where a young woman told one immigrant to keep her distance, causing humiliation.
For Alisson Ramirez and her family, their journey from Venezuela to Aurora was filled with peril and hardships. They fled Venezuela to escape violence and threats, only to face challenges in accessing education and settling in Aurora. Alisson, along with her mother and sister, sought asylum in the US after facing extortion and violence in Venezuela. Now, they navigate the complexities of the American immigration system while trying to build a new life in Aurora.
Aurora’s schools are grappling with the sudden influx of students from Venezuela and Colombia who do not speak English. Teachers are adopting a “translanguaging” approach to help students understand English lessons while also providing support in Spanish. However, integrating these students into mainstream classes has its challenges, with some English-speaking and bilingual students harassing newcomers like Alisson, reflecting the broader societal tensions surrounding immigration.
The education system in Aurora is adapting to the needs of immigrant students, with teachers working to bridge language barriers and provide a supportive environment. While some students face bullying and discrimination, others, like Alisson, are finding their place in the school community. The city’s approach to immigration may be divisive, but within the schools, efforts are being made to ensure all students, regardless of their background, have access to quality education.
Despite the challenges and rumors circulating in Aurora, Alisson and her family continue to navigate their new life in the US. As they face uncertainties about their future and the hostility towards immigrants, they remain resilient and hopeful for a better life. The education system in Aurora plays a crucial role in supporting immigrant students like Alisson, providing them with opportunities to learn and thrive in a new country.
