Our reliance on fossil fuels coupled with American investment in palm oil companies operating in Central and South America have been major drivers of migration north, mainly to the U.S. One would think that the severe heat in the south and southwest would be enough to give pause to oil drilling, it does not seem so.
Although Africa is still the major supplier of palm oil to the rest of the world, Central and Latin American palm oil exports have grown by 70 % over the last decade, taking over small farms and eradicating local food supply. Extreme climate is the icing on the cake, driving migration. People don’t leave their homes unless they have no choice.
Just as our support for repressive regimes in the 1980s and early 1990s created a migration wave then, so our continued support for habitat destruction by American industry simply adds fuel to the fire – literally. Driven from their homes by companies in league with corrupt governments, there’s little choice but to become the new migrants we see now at the Southern border.
Prayer for the Day
When wilt thou save the people, the song goes, O God,
Not thrones, or kings, or those who hold power?
The people cry to you, O Lord, for more than mercy,
For it is justice that we need, not corrupt powers.
Bring us to that place where righteousness reigns,
And people can live peacefully in their own homes.
In the name of the One who calls us to do justice,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Climate change affects migration from Central America in two major ways: the increased intensity of storms and changes in precipitation patterns that have negatively affected crop production
Sarah Bermeo, Duke University
There is no process currently to deal with someone who is coming to the US due to crop failure or natural disaster. This is an ongoing challenge [for all nations] in the modern era, something we critically need to develop.
Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, American Immigration Council
Turn, O Lord! How long? Have compassion on your servants!
Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
So that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
Palm 90: 13-14