The Way of the Cross: Immigration Stations of the Cross
At The Way of the Cross: Immigration Stations of the Cross, held March 30 at Plaza Roberto Maestas, Hilda Magaña, Senior Director of José Martí Child Development Centers, welcomed hundreds on behalf of El Centro de la Raza with a deeply personal reflection. She shared her journey as an immigrant—navigating hardship, uncertainty, and the search for belonging—and how finding El Centro became a turning point, offering not just resources, but a community grounded in dignity, culture, and care.
Now, 45 years later, Hilda reflected on the significance of standing on our Beacon Hill campus, witnessing a powerful gathering of alliances—community organizations, partners, and faith groups—united in support of immigrant communities. She emphasized that the overall feeling of the event was one of safety: a rare and meaningful space where people could show up fully as themselves. She described how the plaza became a sanctuary, where culture, language, and community intertwined to create a deep sense of safety and belonging. Together, attendees sang, reflected, and stepped forward to the open mic, affirming dignity and justice while embodying a shared commitment to uplifting immigrant voices and experiences.
Her message was both personal and collective: immigrants are not strangers—they are neighbors, contributors, and essential to the fabric of our communities. She called for policies rooted in compassion, fairness, and truth, reflecting the lived realities of immigrant families and the strength found in community.
