Grupo de Solidaridad: Meet Roberto

Grupo de Solidaridad is the Church Council's primary means of immigration organizing, rooted in the lived experiences of people impacted by the immigration system. Over the last year, Grupo has learned the Church Council organizing methodologies and has identified three priorities for their work: education, resource mobilization, and convivencia.

We are excited to introduce our network to Grupo members who are leading our work. Today we share Roberto's story:

Roberto is a Venezuelan immigrant who left his country due to political threats and the dire economic situation. Upon arriving in the United States, specifically in Renton, he found a crucial pillar in the Solidarity Group of the Church Council of Greater Seattle. This group not only welcomed him but also provided key support to help him adapt to his new reality. Through them, he met Pastor Gerardo Guzman, who has been a guide in his resettlement process.

Before emigrating, Roberto was a community leader in Venezuela. For years, he worked in his country supporting his community, but by 2002-2003, he felt betrayed by the government due to corruption and unfulfilled promises. This disillusionment, coupled with threats from armed groups, pushed him to make the difficult decision to leave his home.

The Solidarity Group of the Church Council of Greater Seattle has been essential for Roberto in the U.S. Not only have they offered him a safe place to live, but they have also provided guidance on laws, immigration processes, and emotional support in his daily struggle. Despite facing hardships upon arriving in the U.S., such as sleeping in tents or parks, Roberto highlights the generosity and empathy of the group that has helped him stay strong.

For Roberto, the solidarity he has received has not only sustained him but has also given him the strength to continue supporting community leaders in Venezuela from afar, remaining committed to the fight for change in his homeland.