We arrived in Homestead mid-morning, a hot and muggy day, but not as hot and muggy as we feared. There is a steady witness presence at “base camp,” a small set of tents at the corner of the complex, which consists of several buildings and tents, all behind a high fence on which there are several signs that say “No Trespassing” and “No Pictures.”
Behind the fence, if we stood on ladders, we could see the children playing soccer. We waved at them and held up hearts, shouting, “No estan solos, estamos con ustedes” and similar slogans. Several kids waved back at us, often after they had furtively turned a corner where they were out of the watch of the blue-shirted security guards, who were everywhere, and some kids waved even when the security guards were nearby. I (Dina) made a point of saying hello to every security guard who passed. Several refused to look at us, but a few waved sheepishly and a couple even said good morning. One of the witnesses who has been there daily for months told me that she’s spoken with several of the security staff, some of whom believe that the witnesses are paid to be there.
We were impressed with the dedication of the long-term volunteers, who are there every day with water, shade, rain-gear, and a whole list of projects people can do.
When we needed a break from the heat, we learned about the many people who have come to lend their support, and all the work that needs to be done to keep spreading awareness. We hope to be able to bring some of this information home and talk with others about what they can do.