In a heart-wrenching incident, an Indian family of six adults and two children lost their lives while attempting to enter the US from Canada illegally. The group drowned in the St Lawrence River, and their bodies were found on June 28, 2022.
According to reports, the family was attempting to cross the river on a makeshift raft, which overturned in rough waters. The victims were reportedly from Punjab, India, and had been living in Canada for several years before attempting to cross into the US.
The tragedy has sparked outrage and sadness in the Indian and South Asian communities, as well as among advocates for immigrant rights. Many have pointed to the harsh immigration policies and difficult conditions faced by those attempting to enter the US from Canada, particularly in light of recent changes to immigration laws under the Biden administration.
In a statement, New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her condolences and called for increased support for immigrant communities: “My heart breaks for the victims and their families in this tragic incident. We must do more to support and protect immigrants, and ensure that they have safe and legal pathways to enter our country.”
The incident is just one of many tragic examples of the dangers faced by those attempting to enter the US from Canada, as well as from other parts of the world. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of migrants attempting to cross the US border, many of whom are fleeing violence, poverty, and other difficult conditions in their home countries.
Advocates for immigrant rights have called on the US government to provide more support and resources for migrants, as well as to reform immigration policies to make it easier for people to enter the country legally and safely.
The tragedy has also sparked renewed debate over the role of immigration in American society, with many calling for a more compassionate and humane approach to immigration policy. As the US continues to grapple with these complex issues, it is clear that more must be done to support and protect those who are seeking a better life in America.