Day 4: EL PASOOOOO -- Rim Road, BSC El Paso and Port of Entry, Bowie Bakery, Chamizal, Border Wall and Border Patrol

Hola Padres (y madres), 

We had such an informative, busy, and cool (ironically very hot) day today. It all started with a beautiful hike (lol .5 walk) to the top of Rim Road to see a view of the border between El Paso and Juarez. We took some dope action shots, and also compared the style of architectures between towns. From there, we headed to Downtown El Paso to meet with Border Servant Corps, and saw the port of entry for immigrants. We learned about BSC's expansive support systems for new arrivals and walked to the entrance of the port of entry. Wow were we inspired by the commitment of BSC volunteers (in fact many of us want to come back and volunteer). As a little pit stop (because we get tired real easily) we stopped by El Paso famous Bowie's for delicious baked goods (pan dulce, cake, muffins, fresas con crema). We then headed to eat lunch in Chamizal National Park (with a frisbee game led by Brett and Declan). We took some time to learn about the Chamizal territorial conflict in the local museum (and get some nice reprieve from the sun). To end out our programming for the day, we headed to the border wall to see it firsthand. We had a range of reactions -- some of us thought it would be bigger, smaller, or more populated. We had a chance to walk down a stretch of the wall and witness parts that had been welded open, and even saw lost belongings of those who tried to cross. We took this time to reflect on the value of the border, and what the ultimate goal of having one accomplished. As we walked to the vans to head home, Geoffrey spotted a border patrol truck. We were especially excited because we had been told that border patrol could not speak to us this week. An overzealous Avani and Geoffrey attempted to flag down the officer, and with the assist of group guides Ruby and Connor, he agreed to talk to all of us. We all appreciated his respect for immigration issues, insights on border control, and his willingness to reflect with us. Finally, we blasted some 2000s throwbacks on the way home. 

Tonight we plan on our daily game of paranoia and cards. We're finally moving past the storming (sibling fight) stage, and entering the norming (besties forever) stage. We miss you all very dearly and can't wait to give you guys big hugs, 

Hasta luego, 

El Paso '24 (Avani, Elsa, Jack) 

Shoutouts: 

Elsa - Please give Jet lots and lots of love for me :) and I hope Turbo is well too I guess

Jack - Hope Hallie isn't bullying Maia too much for her own good (puppies). I hope the ice cream supply at home isn't running too high without me :)

Avani- Queen Pree and King Venky -- I hope u guys are slaying in Tahoe. Have so much fun for me!! I'm excited to see you guys and watch our Rookie recap. Tell Sahana and Divya I got them gifts, so they better be nice in order to receive them. 


















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