Courts & Ports walks you across the Texas-Mexico border to meet with migrants seeking asylum , and into federal courts to observe the arcane processes that migrants must navigate. You’ll meet assisters who help migrants on their journeys, and learn from experts about the laws and policies that have led to the current chaotic situation. You’ll spend time in personal and group reflection, and go home equipped to share what you’ve learned…and discern next steps for you and your faith community.
What’s Included in Your Registration Fee
- 3 nights’ lodging
- 3 breakfasts
- 1 lunch
- 1 dinner
- Border crossing fees
- Travel within the border area
- Materials
What’s Not Included in Your Registration Fee
- Travel to and from Brownsville
- 1 lunch
- 1 dinner
Trip Requirements
Courts & Ports participants must:
- have a valid U.S. passport to be able to cross to and from Mexico
- show proof of COVID vaccination and a negative COVID test the day before arrival
- be 18 or older
In general, participants must be physically able to walk across the international bridge; contact Texas Impact for inquiries about accessibility accommodations.
Schedule
Please note that Courts & Ports is intentionally responsive to current conditions and policy developments impacting migration and the border area. Activities are subject to change based on court schedules; migration flows; security considerations; and other factors.
Sample Itinerary:
Sunday
Travel to Brownsville; orientation at hotel Sunday evening
Monday
7:00 AM-8:00 AM
Breakfast at hotel
9AM-11AM
Situation briefing and court preparation
11AM to 1PM
Court observation
1:00PM
Lunch
2:00PM
Port of Entry – Brownsville/Matamoros Gateway International Bridge; meet with migrants at Asociación Ayudandoles a triunfar in Matamoros
5:00PM
Dinner in Brownsville
Tuesday
7:00 AM-8:00 AM
Breakfast at hotel
9AM-11AM
Serve breakfast to migrants in Matamoros
12:00 PM
Lunch
2PM- 4PM
Plan post-trip activities (“Taking Courts & Ports Home”)
Network weaving
Group photo
5:00PM-8:00PM
Closing Worship and Dinner
Wednesday
7:00 AM-8:00 AM
Breakfast at hotel
Travel home