As his family self-deports, this teen is leaving behind his friends, his church, and his education dreams
This time last year, Bruno was picking out a new backpack, asking friends about their junior year class schedules, and starting college courses through his Newark high school. The 16-year-old should be preparing for his first day of senior year, but instead, he’s…
This past year, 16-year-old Bruno and his family prepared for his senior year of high school in Newark, New Jersey. Picking out backpacks, discussing class schedules with friends, and beginning college courses were part of the usual routine. However, his family's plans are now changing. They are leaving for Brazil due to the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration.
His parents decided to leave voluntarily rather than risk deportation, hoping it would give Bruno the best chance at returning to the United States in the future. Bruno will leave behind his friends, the church he serves, and his aspirations to become a filmmaker or biologist. He will also miss his prom, graduation, and diploma.
The family's gamble has a significant impact on Bruno's education. The pandemic, moving to a new country, and learning English have already disrupted his K-12 education. Returning to Brazil could disrupt his schooling timeline and nullify his coursework in both high school and college.
Written by urgent.news from Chalkbeat's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
