The Black Deported Veterans of America, based in San Diego, is on a mission to advocate for deported veterans who are sent back to their birth countries. This group is teaming up with other organizations to participate in the New York City Veterans Day Parade.
Rob Young, the producer of the upcoming documentary “Bring Them Home,” is passionate about shedding light on this issue. He expressed his concern about deported veterans not being able to enjoy the same freedoms they fought for. The documentary, set to be released in 2025, will share the stories of veterans who were deported under different circumstances.
The main objective of the film is to bring awareness to the challenges faced by deported veterans after serving the United States. According to the National Association of Minority Veterans of America, many deported service members were legal residents who had committed multiple misdemeanors. The exact number of deported veterans remains unknown.
Hector Barajas, the director of the Deported Veterans Support House in Tijuana, emphasized the importance of ensuring that all veterans receive the benefits they deserve. He highlighted the need for a structured program that would help military personnel navigate the path to citizenship before they are discharged.
The Deported Veterans Support House serves as a valuable resource for veterans in Tijuana, connecting them with necessary support services. Barajas stressed the significance of honoring all veterans, including those who are homeless or incarcerated, by providing them with the assistance they need.
In an effort to prevent further deportations of veterans, Barajas called for a comprehensive process that would streamline the citizenship application for military personnel. He pointed out the lack of a systematic approach within Immigration and Customs Enforcement to identify veterans during the immigration process.
As the Black Deported Veterans of America and their allies prepare to march in the Veterans Day Parade, their presence serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by deported veterans. Through their advocacy efforts and the upcoming documentary, they hope to spark meaningful conversations and bring about positive change for deported veterans across the country.
