Dialogue

A SWIFT REACTION

Well, I read every word of this article (“Out in East Texas,” July 11), and it makes me want to read every word that Edward Swift ever wrote. Thank you for introducing me to a new treasure.

Elaine Allen via e-mail

WHAT A PICTURE IS WORTH

When I see Julián Cardona’s photos (“Movement of the People,” excerpts from Exodus/Éxodo, July 11), my eyes fill with tears, and my heart races with indignation and sadness. These men and women who expose themselves to such danger are human beings seeking survival that is denied them in their own country. Most are deported and return to the border with no money, and then to their villages and cities to sell whatever they own and pay thousands of dollars to corrupt smugglers. Women are raped, men are humiliated. Some-attacked by racists at the border-find their American dream turned into a nightmare. Those who find work often get paid less than minimum wage. They abandon their families, their lives, and their dead.

The United States is a country of immigrants. Put yourselves in the place of these who leave everything for the dream of a better life for themselves and their children. They are working people, not criminals. Most of the people of the U.S. support new immigration laws.

When you look at Julián’s marvelous photographs, see in the faces of the migrants those of your own sisters, mothers, fathers, and brothers. I cannot wait to read this book.

Esther Chavez CanoCiudad Juárez, Mexico