Chicago Migrants Return to Venezuela as City Struggles with Resources

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
12/11/2023 23h32

In a concerning turn of events, migrants in Chicago are opting to return to their home country of Venezuela due to the city's dwindling resources to accommodate and support illegal immigrants. The Chicago Tribune recently highlighted the story of Michael Castejon and his family, shedding light on the difficult circumstances faced by migrants in the city.

Castejon, alongside his wife and stepdaughter, had migrated from Venezuela in search of a better life. However, their dreams were shattered as they found themselves grappling with homelessness, limited job opportunities, and inadequate access to education. Frustrated by their situation, the family decided in early November to request tickets back to Venezuela, expressing their disillusionment with the once-promised "American Dream."

"The American Dream doesn't exist anymore," Castejon affirmed. "There's nothing here for us."

The Tribune's report further revealed that Castejon's experience was not uncommon among migrants in Chicago. As the temperature drops and winter approaches, many are opting to request tickets to other cities or even countries to avoid sleeping on the streets.

Some migrants admitted feeling misled, expecting immediate asylum and the possibility of obtaining work permits. Others acknowledged the strain that the overwhelming number of illegal immigrants has placed on the city's resources.

"We didn't know things would be this hard," Castejon lamented. "I thought the process was faster."

According to city officials, Chicago has received over 19,000 migrants since August 2022. Simultaneously, more than 68,000 citizens of Chicago find themselves experiencing homelessness. As the migrant crisis worsens, local leaders are engaged in heated debates surrounding Chicago's status as a "sanctuary city" for migrants.

In the face of limited resources, the city has been compelled to shelter migrants at O'Hare Airport, police stations, and even youth sports fields. Regrettably, many others find themselves forced onto the streets, braving freezing temperatures.

"We just want to be home," Castejon pleaded. "If we're going to be sleeping in the streets here, we'd rather be sleeping in the streets over there."

As Chicago grapples with the ongoing migrant crisis, the pressing question of resource allocation and humanitarian support for migrants becomes increasingly vital. Efforts must be made to find lasting solutions and ensure the welfare of both migrants and the existing population of the city.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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