TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Hikers from across the country completed a 75-mile walk through the Sonoran Desert's borderlands, arriving at Kennedy Park on Tucson's southwest side to mark the end of a journey aimed at raising awareness of migrant deaths.
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At Kennedy Park, food and music offered a way to celebrate the end of the long journey. The Spanish word "presente," translating to "present" in English, served as a symbol that those who have died along the borderlands are still with us in spirit.
Matthew Bridges drove in from Oakland, California, to take part in the walk.
"We're here because we want to remember those who have died in the desert and those that the desert has taken because they are seeking a better life in this country," Bridges said.
"We walk to remember them," Bridges said.
CLICK HERE TO SEE MAY 25TH'S COVERAGE OF THE START OF THE WALK
After walking from the Sasabe border to Kennedy Park, Bridges said his perspective on the border changed.
"We saw military jets flying over head and we saw surveillance infrastructure," Bridges said.
Despite favorable weather throughout the week, Bridges said participants still felt the exhaustion many migrants experience making the same walk.
"Still many in our group struggled with heat exhaustion and dehydration," Bridges said.
Jamie Wilson reflected on the community's mission and why the Migrant Trail group began its work 23 years ago.
"We walk as a community to avenge these deaths," Wilson said.
"I wish to send a prayer to the families of these folks who perished in our borderlands," Wilson said.
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Marc Monroy joined KGUN 9 as a multimedia journalist after moving from KGUN 9’s sister station, KXXV, in Waco, Texas. He graduated from California State University, Northridge, in 2024 with a degree in journalism. A native of Southern California and a bilingual reporter, Marc is excited to serve Southern Arizona and looks forward to connecting with neighbors in the community. Share your story ideas and important issues with Marc by emailing marc.monroy@kgun9.com or by connecting on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
