In the Country We Love: My Family Divided

Chapter 9 opens with an account of Guerrero’s life post-deportation. She finds a second mother in Amelia, as well as new siblings in Amelia’s three children. As welcoming as the family is, however, Guerrero feels like a guest in their home. Aware of Amelia’s sacrifice, Guerrero is vigilant about respecting the family’s boundaries and participating in household chores. Papi sends Amelia money to offset the cost of feeding and clothing her, making Guerrero long for financial independence. Her parents’ absence weighs on her, especially at Springfest. She feels devastated upon learning that Mami and Papi separate.

Guerrero’s first trip to Colombia occurs on the eve of her 15th birthday. Her parents, extended family, neighbors, and a band greet her at the airport. Culture shock sets in during the drive to Cali when Guerrero sees homeless children in the streets. Her spirits rise when she reunites with Eric at a family gathering, but tensions between her and Mami soon emerge. Guerrero blames her mother for the family’s predicament. By reopening her green card case in New Jersey, Mami inadvertently put the family on ICE’s radar. Guerrero’s resentment prompts her to spend more time with her cousins than with her mother.