David says the courts are not swayed by financial hardships or even the trauma caused by family separations.
That trauma can be significant. Dr. Gerald J. Bryant, forensic psychologist specializing in immigration, says that the distress caused by deportation is a factor that should hold in court given the long-term side effects it carries.
“Children really suffer the most. For a child, having a mother or a father being sent halfway around the world is almost like death,” Bryant said. “They go through anxiety and depression. They may not want to go to school, may not want to play, or may not even want to stay in a room by themselves. After the deportation takes place, they may suffer from separation anxiety disorder – when their world is suddenly turned upside-down. They feel completely thrown and start not to trust the world; they can develop deep depressive disorders and their future relationships can be deeply affected.”
Today, Fatoumata is not only fighting to remain in the United States with her children, but also actively speaks out against female genital mutilation and in favor of the rights of immigrant families. She is an active member of Families for Freedom and the New Sanctuary Movement Coalition, and frequently joins rallies and community meetings.
“I’m fighting for my children’s lives,” said Fatoumata. “I hope I get to stay here with my children. Our dream is to stay here and to have a family.”
