Introduction
Summary of the book Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here by Jonathan Blitzer. Before moving forward, let’s briefly explore the core idea of the book. Imagine having to leave everything you know behind because staying means facing unimaginable dangers. This is the reality for hundreds of thousands of people each year from Central America, who risk everything to seek safety in the United States. In ‘Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here,’ Jonathan Blitzer tells the gripping story of this ongoing crisis through the eyes of Juan Romagosa, a Salvadoran doctor who fled violence and persecution. As you journey through eight captivating chapters, you’ll uncover the deep-rooted forces driving migration, the brave individuals who offer sanctuary, and the complex policies that shape these lives. Through Juan’s experiences, you’ll gain a vivid understanding of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s unyielding quest for a better life. Dive into this fascinating narrative and discover the profound connections that bind people across borders in their search for safety and belonging.
Chapter 1: The Early 1980s Turmoil in Central America and Juan’s Desperate Flight for Safety.
In the early 1980s, Central America was engulfed in chaos. Countries like El Salvador and Guatemala were torn apart by intense violence and political unrest. Ordinary people lived in fear as military forces clashed with rebel groups, creating a constant atmosphere of danger. Amidst this turmoil was Juan Romagosa, a young and dedicated doctor from El Salvador. Juan had witnessed unimaginable horrors, including the brutal torture by his own country’s military. Determined to save his life and continue his mission to help others, Juan made the heart-wrenching decision to flee his homeland.
Juan’s journey north was fraught with peril. Leaving behind his family, friends, and everything he knew was not an easy choice. The path to safety was uncertain and dangerous, filled with risks of being caught or facing further violence. As Juan traveled through Guatemala and Mexico, he encountered countless others who shared similar stories of desperation and hope. These fellow travelers were escaping the same brutalities that Juan had endured, all seeking a chance for a better and safer life. Their shared experiences created a sense of solidarity and determination among them.
Upon reaching the United States, Juan found himself in Tucson, Arizona, where the sanctuary movement was beginning to take shape. Churches and community leaders were stepping up to provide refuge for people like Juan, who were fleeing persecution. Among these leaders was John Fife, a Presbyterian minister who recognized the urgent need to protect these vulnerable individuals. Fife’s decision to open his church doors to Central American refugees marked the beginning of a powerful movement that challenged U.S. immigration policies and offered a lifeline to those in desperate need.
As Juan settled into his new life in San Francisco, he became an integral part of the sanctuary movement. By day, he worked to support himself and help maintain the sanctuary efforts, while by night, he grappled with the memories of his past and the uncertainty of his future. Despite the challenges, Juan’s resilience and unwavering hope kept him moving forward. He began organizing therapy groups for fellow refugees in Dolores Park, providing a space for healing and community. Juan’s story was just one among hundreds of thousands facing similar struggles, each contributing to the larger narrative of survival and hope.
Chapter 2: The Rise of the Sanctuary Movement and Its Challenge to U.S. Immigration Policies.
In the early 1980s, the United States was grappling with a significant influx of Central American refugees seeking asylum. The violence and instability in countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras forced many to flee their homes in search of safety. However, the U.S. government’s response was less than welcoming. Officials labeled these individuals as economic migrants rather than genuine refugees, dismissing the severe threats they faced in their home countries. This misclassification left thousands without the protection they desperately needed, pushing communities to take matters into their own hands.
Amidst this bureaucratic indifference, a movement began to take shape, driven by ordinary people who refused to turn away those in need. John Fife, a Presbyterian minister in Tucson, Arizona, became a key figure in this emerging sanctuary movement. In March 1982, Fife and his congregation made a bold decision to declare their church a sanctuary for Central American refugees. This act of civil disobedience was reminiscent of the Underground Railroad, offering a safe haven to those escaping persecution. The church became a beacon of hope, challenging the government’s rigid stance on immigration and asserting the moral obligation to protect human lives.
The sanctuary movement quickly gained momentum, inspiring churches and synagogues across the nation to open their doors to refugees. This collective effort created a network of safe spaces where individuals like Juan Romagosa could find shelter and support. These faith-based communities provided not only physical refuge but also emotional and psychological assistance, helping refugees cope with the trauma of their past and the uncertainties of their present. The movement highlighted the power of grassroots activism in effecting social change, as ordinary citizens took a stand against unjust policies.
As the sanctuary movement grew, so did the tension between supporters and the government. In January 1985, the U.S. government took a decisive step to crack down on sanctuary workers by charging 16 individuals, including John Fife and Peggy Hutchison, with smuggling and harboring illegal immigrants. Their trial became a national spectacle, forcing Americans to confront the ethical dilemmas surrounding immigration and the treatment of refugees. The legal battle underscored the deep divisions within the country, as people debated whether upholding the law was more important than saving lives. Ultimately, the courage and resilience of the sanctuary workers began to shift public opinion, paving the way for future changes in immigration policy.
Chapter 3: Legal Battles and Moral Dilemmas in the Fight for Refugee Rights.
The mid-1980s sanctuary movement was more than just a protest; it was a pivotal moment that sparked nationwide debates on immigration and human rights. As churches and synagogues continued to offer refuge to Central American refugees, the government’s stance remained rigid. Under President Reagan, officials insisted that these individuals were economic migrants, not deserving of asylum despite the clear evidence of violence and human rights abuses in their home countries. This disconnect between policy and reality created a tense atmosphere, with activists pushing back against the government’s refusal to recognize the true plight of refugees.
Juan Romagosa, now settled in San Francisco, became an active participant in the fight for refugee rights. Working at La Clinica del Pueblo, he provided medical care to fellow immigrants and became a vocal advocate for their needs. Juan’s dedication extended beyond his professional duties; he organized therapy groups in Dolores Park, offering a space for refugees to heal and support each other. His efforts exemplified the broader mission of the sanctuary movement: to not only provide immediate relief but also to empower refugees to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.
As legal challenges mounted, the sanctuary movement faced increasing pressure from the government. The trial of the 16 sanctuary workers in 1985 highlighted the moral dilemmas at the heart of the immigration crisis. Supporters argued that protecting refugees was a fundamental human duty, while opponents contended that the rule of law must be upheld regardless of individual circumstances. The courtroom became a battleground for these conflicting perspectives, with passionate arguments on both sides. The outcome of the trial would have far-reaching implications for the future of immigration policy and the rights of refugees in the United States.
Despite the challenges, the sanctuary movement persisted, driven by the unwavering belief in the importance of human life and compassion. Juan and his fellow activists continued to advocate for systemic changes, striving to shift public perception and influence policy. Their resilience in the face of adversity demonstrated the power of collective action and the impact that determined individuals can have on shaping societal values. As the movement gained visibility, it laid the groundwork for future reforms that would eventually recognize the legitimacy of refugee claims and the necessity of providing protection to those fleeing persecution.
Chapter 4: Navigating Changing U.S. Immigration Laws from the 1980s to the 1990s.
The late 1980s marked a period of significant change in U.S. immigration policy, driven by both political shifts and the persistent crisis in Central America. In 1986, Congress enacted the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), which granted amnesty to millions of undocumented immigrants who had been living in the country since before 1982. This landmark legislation was a double-edged sword; while it provided relief to many, it failed to address the ongoing influx of refugees fleeing violence in Central America. The Reagan administration continued to classify these individuals as economic migrants, leaving many like Juan Romagosa in a state of legal limbo.
Juan’s quest for asylum was prolonged and fraught with uncertainty. His application languished for years, leaving him without the security and stability he desperately sought. During this time, he devoted himself to serving the immigrant community at La Clinica del Pueblo in Washington, D.C. The clinic became a vital resource for medical care and support, reflecting Juan’s commitment to helping others despite his own unresolved status. His involvement in the clinic highlighted the broader struggles faced by immigrants, who often had to rely on community-based organizations for assistance in navigating the complex immigration system.
The end of the Cold War in 1989 brought about significant geopolitical shifts that impacted Central America and U.S. foreign policy. With the fall of the Berlin Wall, the global focus shifted, leading to changes in how the United States engaged with countries in the region. Peace talks in El Salvador gained momentum, culminating in the 1992 peace accords that officially ended the civil war. However, the scars of conflict ran deep, and many Salvadorans who had fled to the U.S. found it difficult to return home. The promise of peace was overshadowed by lingering instability and economic challenges, making the decision to stay in the United States a complex and personal one.
In 1997, Congress passed the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA), which offered a path to permanent residency for many Central American and Eastern European immigrants. For Juan, NACARA represented a glimmer of hope after years of uncertainty. The act provided much-needed security, allowing him to finally settle and continue his advocacy work without the constant fear of deportation. However, the implementation of NACARA also revealed new challenges, as neoliberal economic policies in Central America began to take their toll. Rising poverty and ongoing violence continued to drive people to seek refuge in the United States, perpetuating the cycle of migration and the need for compassionate immigration policies.
Chapter 5: The Post-9/11 Era: How Terrorism Changed U.S. Immigration and Refugee Policies.
The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, were a turning point for the United States, fundamentally altering its approach to immigration and national security. In the aftermath, the U.S. government implemented stringent security measures that had far-reaching effects on immigrants and refugees. Policies that were once focused on economic migration and humanitarian aid were now intertwined with concerns about national security. This shift created a more rigid and hostile environment for asylum seekers, making it increasingly difficult for individuals like Juan Romagosa to navigate the immigration system.
One of the most significant changes was the introduction of the Real ID Act of 2005, which imposed strict identification requirements on immigrants seeking asylum. This legislation made it harder for refugees to prove their cases, often leading to prolonged legal battles and increased uncertainty. At the same time, border enforcement intensified, with the southern border becoming heavily militarized. Surveillance technology, expanded patrols, and numerous detention centers were established, creating a daunting barrier for those attempting to cross into the United States. For immigrants, these changes meant heightened fear and fewer opportunities to seek the safety and stability they desperately needed.
Despite these challenges, the sanctuary movement continued to adapt and resist. Juan, now living in the United States for over two decades, found himself caught in the crosshairs of these new policies. The country he had once been welcomed into as a refugee now seemed increasingly closed off to newcomers. The sense of community and support that had characterized the early sanctuary movement began to wane under the pressure of heightened security measures and restrictive immigration laws. Juan contemplated returning to El Salvador, but the situation there remained unstable, leaving him trapped in a liminal space between two worlds.
As the years progressed, a new generation of immigrants emerged, shaped by the changing political and social landscape. Many were brought to the U.S. as infants or born to immigrant parents, growing up as Americans in nearly every way except on paper. These young individuals faced unique legal challenges, as their identities and lives were deeply entwined with both their heritage and their American upbringing. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, introduced in 2012, offered temporary relief to these ‘Dreamers,’ allowing them to work legally and pursue education without the constant fear of deportation. For many, DACA was a lifeline, providing a semblance of stability in an otherwise tumultuous immigration system.
Chapter 6: The Rise of DACA and the Struggle for Legal Status Among Young Immigrants.
In 2012, the Obama administration introduced the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. DACA was designed to protect young immigrants who had been brought to the United States as children from deportation. These individuals, often referred to as ‘Dreamers,’ had grown up in America, attending schools, making friends, and contributing to their communities. Despite their deep ties to the country, many lacked legal status, leaving them vulnerable to removal and separation from their families. DACA provided temporary relief, allowing Dreamers to work legally, pursue higher education, and live with less fear of deportation.
The introduction of DACA was met with both hope and controversy. For many Dreamers, it represented a crucial opportunity to build a stable and secure future. It allowed them to pursue their dreams without the constant anxiety of being uprooted from their lives. However, the program was also criticized by opponents who argued that it encouraged illegal immigration and overstepped executive authority. The legal battles surrounding DACA underscored the deep divisions within the country regarding immigration policy and the treatment of undocumented immigrants.
As the new millennium progressed, immigration remained a contentious issue in American politics. The policies implemented under DACA were seen as a temporary solution, failing to address the underlying issues driving migration from Central America. Economic instability, violence, and environmental challenges continued to push people to seek refuge in the United States, perpetuating the cycle of migration and the need for comprehensive immigration reform. Activists and advocates, including Juan Romagosa, continued to push for lasting changes that would provide more permanent solutions for refugees and immigrants seeking a better life.
The 2016 presidential election brought renewed focus and intensity to the immigration debate. Donald Trump’s campaign prominently featured immigration as a central issue, promising to crack down on illegal immigration and secure the southern border with a physical wall. Trump’s victory signaled a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, as his administration moved swiftly to implement aggressive measures aimed at reducing the number of immigrants entering the country. These policies not only targeted undocumented immigrants but also affected legal refugees and asylum seekers, further complicating the already challenging landscape for those seeking safety and stability in the United States.
Chapter 7: The Trump Administration’s Hardline Policies and Their Impact on Central American Migrants.
When Donald Trump assumed the presidency in 2016, his administration brought a new wave of strict immigration policies that drastically altered the lives of Central American migrants. Trump’s rhetoric and policies were marked by a hardline stance on immigration, emphasizing the need for national security and economic protection. One of his signature promises was the construction of a wall along the southern border, symbolizing a physical barrier to prevent unauthorized entry. This approach resonated with his supporters but alarmed immigrant communities and human rights advocates who feared for the safety and rights of migrants.
Under Trump’s administration, several aggressive measures were enacted to curb immigration. The travel bans targeting Muslim-majority countries and the zero-tolerance policy at the border were among the most controversial. Perhaps the most heartbreaking policy was the separation of migrant children from their parents, a practice that sparked widespread outrage and legal battles. Families were torn apart, with children being placed in detention centers while their parents faced deportation. These actions not only caused immense emotional trauma but also highlighted the harsh realities of the administration’s approach to immigration enforcement.
As these policies took root, the situation in Central America deteriorated further, leading to a surge in migration. Political unrest in Honduras, exacerbated by the disputed re-election of President Juan Orlando Hernandez in 2017, pushed more families to flee their homes in search of safety. The resulting migrant caravans, comprising hundreds of families and unaccompanied children, made headlines across the globe. These large groups traveling together for safety became a potent symbol of the ongoing humanitarian crisis, challenging the U.S. government’s capacity to respond effectively and compassionately.
The Trump administration’s actions at the border created a humanitarian emergency, overwhelming facilities and igniting fierce debates about the best way to handle migration. President Trump portrayed the migrant caravans as an invasion, further fueling tensions and justifying the deployment of additional border troops. The administration’s policies not only intensified the struggles of Central American migrants but also deepened the political and social divisions within the United States. As the nation grappled with these challenges, the resilience and determination of migrants like Juan Romagosa continued to shine through, even in the face of adversity.
Chapter 8: Resilience and Return: Juan Romagosa’s Journey Amidst Ongoing Central American Crises.
As the Trump administration’s hardline immigration policies took full effect, Central American migrants faced unprecedented challenges. Policies like ‘Remain in Mexico’ forced asylum seekers to wait in dangerous border towns while their cases were processed, putting their safety at even greater risk. This starkly contrasted with the sanctuary movement of the 1980s, where churches provided refuge and support. The U.S. government’s focus on border security overshadowed the humanitarian needs of those fleeing violence and instability, perpetuating a cycle of fear and uncertainty for immigrants like Juan Romagosa.
In 2021, with the election of President Joe Biden, there was a glimmer of hope for reversing some of the previous administration’s harsh measures. The Biden administration aimed to address the border crisis by dismantling policies like ‘Remain in Mexico’ and re-establishing more humane immigration practices. However, the damage had already been done, and the complexities of the immigration system remained deeply entrenched. Juan observed these changes from a unique perspective, having experienced both the sanctuary movement and the stringent policies firsthand. His life had come full circle, bringing him back to El Salvador after years of advocating for refugee rights in the United States.
Returning to El Salvador was both a personal and professional milestone for Juan. He established a clinic in Usulutan, dedicated to treating patients who had been deported from the U.S. and those still striving to make their way north. The clinic became a vital resource for the community, addressing both physical and emotional wounds inflicted by decades of conflict and instability. Juan’s work bridged two worlds, providing care and support to individuals caught between the violence of their homeland and the challenges of rebuilding their lives. His return underscored the ongoing struggles in Central America, where peace was fragile and the dream of a stable homeland remained elusive for many.
Under President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador implemented aggressive measures to combat gang violence, including declaring a state of emergency. While these actions were intended to restore order, they also highlighted the persistent instability that plagued the country. Juan and his patients continued to grapple with the uncertainty of their situation, torn between the familiarity of their roots and the possibilities of a new life in the United States. The clinic in Usulutan became a symbol of resilience, reflecting the strength and determination of those who refused to give up despite the odds stacked against them.
The ongoing border crisis under the Biden administration mirrored earlier waves of migration, revealing that the fundamental issues driving people to flee Central America remained unresolved. Poverty, violence, and climate change continued to push individuals and families to seek refuge elsewhere, perpetuating the cycle of migration and displacement. Juan’s journey, marked by survival, advocacy, and eventual return, exemplified the resilience of Central American migrants. His story served as a testament to the enduring ties between El Salvador and the United States, shaped by shared histories of struggle, survival, and an unwavering hope for a better future.
All about the Book
Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here by Jonathan Blitzer is a profound exploration of loss, memory, and connection, beautifully weaving personal stories with universal themes that resonate deeply with readers seeking solace and understanding in their own experiences.
Jonathan Blitzer is a compelling voice in contemporary literature, known for his evocative narratives that delve into themes of identity, belonging, and the human experience, captivating readers and critics alike.
Psychologists, Social Workers, Educators, Mental Health Professionals, Literary Critics
Reading Literature, Creative Writing, Exploring Human Psychology, Engaging in Book Clubs, Attending Literary Festivals
Grief and Loss, Memory and Identity, Cultural Displacement, Mental Health Awareness
Even in absence, our connections endure; the ones we’ve lost shape who we become.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, George Saunders, Celeste Ng
National Book Award, PEN Open Book Award, New York Times Best Seller
1. How can understanding loss help process grief effectively? #2. What insights do rituals provide in coping with death? #3. How does memory shape our understanding of absence? #4. Can stories of loss strengthen connections with others? #5. What role does forgiveness play in healing after loss? #6. How do different cultures approach mourning and remembrance? #7. In what ways can art express our grief journey? #8. How does acknowledging pain lead to emotional resilience? #9. What lessons can we learn from shared human experiences? #10. How can reflection transform our perception of absence? #11. What impacts does unresolved grief have on individuals? #12. How can one find meaning in loss and longing? #13. What are the stages of grief and healing processes? #14. How does nature influence our feelings of loss? #15. What role do friendships play in overcoming grief? #16. How can journaling help clarify feelings about loss? #17. In what ways can community support aid grief processing? #18. How does time affect our memories of those gone? #19. What practices can enhance mindfulness during mourning? #20. How can gratitude coexist with feelings of loss?
Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here, Jonathan Blitzer, contemporary fiction, emotional storytelling, literary fiction, books about loss, fiction about relationships, modern literature, lost connections in life, exploring grief in literature, novels about memory, thought-provoking reads
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