[border wall header art]
© Leslie DeGrassi
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026
7:30 am Field Trips - Arrive at The Good Shepherd
*** To see Field Trip descriptions, click here. ***
5:00 - 7:00 pm Dinner on your own
​​​​7:00 - 9:30 pm Premiere Documentary Film Screening of "Samaritans" by David (Confirmed) Damian Figueroa​
Cast: Shura Wallin, Pastor Randy Mayer, Jaime Brusstar, Rita Danks, Gail Kocourek, Pancho Martin, and Alvaro Enciso
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Join us for an impactful evening as we premiere "Samaritans," a moving documentary that captures the dedication of older American volunteers providing life-saving aid to migrants at the US-Mexico border. With a running time of one hour, this film honors the memory of those who have tragically lost their lives in pursuit of the American Dream and highlights the urgent call for compassion and justice in migration. Experience the inspiring stories of the Green Valley-Sahuarita Samaritans, who have selflessly helped over 30,000 migrants in distress in Southern Arizona's harsh desert, embodying the spirit of humanity and resilience.
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All are invited to attend; you do not need to be a conference participant to come. There will be
a request for donations, at the door, to support the work of the Green Valley-Sahuarita Samaritans.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026
8:30 - 9:00 am Registration
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9:00 - 9:15 am Welcome and Orientation
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9:15-10:15 am Keynote Address: Erick Meza - Sierra Club​​
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Erick Meza is the current Borderlands Coordinator for the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter and Permaculture educator from the Sonoran Desert. He will be speaking about the ecological damage of building the border wall and all of the destruction that falls in its wake.
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10:30 - 11:30 am Author Spotlight and Conversation: "Dead of Summer" with author Enrique Castillo
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​ Join us for an intimate Author Spotlight featuring Enrique Castillo, a celebrated Mexican American actor, writer, director, and producer. Known for his iconic roles in "El Norte" and "Blood in Blood Out," Castillo brings his experiences as a migrant child Farmworker along with his artistic vision to life through his latest work, “The Dead of Summer.” This gripping tale unfolds in a remote desert hamlet near the California/Mexico border, where danger and supernatural elements intertwine amidst violent sandstorms and ancient legends. Castillo expertly weaves together themes of cultural displacement and ancestral struggles, grounding his characters in the rich tapestry of the Southwest. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore a profound narrative that challenges the boundaries of Chicano literature with the ease of a master storyteller.
11:30 am - 1:00 pm Lunch: Tamales and Tacos for sale on the patio
1:00 - 2:30 pm Keynote Address: Diane Maldonado - Songs of the Soil
Songs from the Soil: Diane Maldonado's Stories from America's Agricultural Fields (An acoustic performance) Diane Maldonado is not just a recording artist; she is a captivating storyteller with roots that weave through the rugged landscapes of Idaho. once a migrant child, her journey has been anything but ordinary. She first emerged from the vibrant cultural melting pot of San Antonio, Texas, where she commanded the stage as the dynamic frontwoman of the acclaimed Tejano group, Amor y Pasión. Under her electrifying leadership, Amor y Pasión burst onto the music scene with their debut LP, "Sangre Caliente," in 1998, igniting a passion that resonated deeply within the hearts of their listeners. Just two years later, they followed up with "Besa Besa," further solidifying their place in the hearts of Tejano music lovers. Now based in San Antonio, Diane continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, infusing her performances with a rare blend of emotion and energy that captivates audiences far and wide. Her story is one of resilience, rhythm, and relentless ambition, inviting listeners to join her on a melodic journey that transcends borders and speaks to the soul. Will you be part of the next chapter in her remarkable saga?​​​
2:45 - 4:45 pm Classes/Workshops
*** To see class/workshop descriptions, click here. ***
4:45 - 5:45 pm Free Time
5:45 - 6:45 pm Dinner provided by the Food Bank
7:00 - 9:30 pm Musical Event with Dr. Kathy Bullock
An evening with Dr. Kathy Bullock -- More Details Coming Soon!
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 18, 2025
8:30 - 9:00 am Registration
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9:00 - 9:15 am Gathering, Announcements and Orientation
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9:15 - 10:15 am Keynote Addresses: Todd Miller - The Border Chronicle
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Todd Miller for the past 15 years Todd has dedicated himself to in depth reporting and writing about immigration, the militarization of the US/ Mexico Border, and the communities and people that live there. He has written 4 books including Border Patrol Nation, Empire of Borders, Build Bridges not Walls, and Storming the Wall. He is also co-founder of The Border Chronicle.
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10:15 - 11:00 am Border Fair on the Patio
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11:00 am - 12:00 pm Keynote Address: Alba Jaramillo - Law and Justice Network
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Alba Jamarillo J.D. is co-executive director of the Immigration Law and Justice Network and is the founder of the founder of Teatro Dignidad (Dignity Theater). Alba is a celebrated local and national leader in the area of immigration, human rights, and the arts. She will be bringing insights to the current legal situation that relate to the heavy-handed immigration enforcement and the impact on migrant communities, their families and activists.
12:00 - 1:30 pm Lunch: Tamales and Tacos for sale on the patio
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1:30 - 3:30 pm​ Classes/Workshops
*** To see class/workshop descriptions, click here. ***
3:30 - 5:45 pm Free Time
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5:45 - 7:00 pm Dinner Provided
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7:00 - 9:30 pm Exclusive Film Screening: "Ugly Little Monkeys" (Los Changuitos Feos) Performance: Los Changuitos Feos
​ Panelists: David Valdez, Co-Director
Enrique Castillo, Co-Director
Wilford Arvizu - Author/Former Changuito
Adalberto Gallegos - Recording Artist/Former Changuito​​
"Ugly Little Monkeys" - The story of the world-renowned
mariachi youth group, "Los Changuitos Feos." Join us for
an exclusive screening featuring the powerful film executive
produced by Edward James Olmos, co-directed by veteran
filmmakers David Valdez and Enrique Castillo. The film explores
the dark challenges of assimilation faced by Mexican/American families, where pride in heritage clashes with prejudice and the
harsh realities of speaking Spanish. Through the lens of nostalgic
pop culture, it reflects on the struggle to maintain cultural identity amidst societal pressures while navigating childhood
influences from Mexican traditions and American entertainment.
*** FIELD TRIPS Options (Thursday) ***
Field trips are designed to give different perspectives of the border, immigration, and the humanitarian work that takes place. For groups coming to Common Ground, group members should choose a variety of trips, so they can bring back an assortment of experiences to their community.
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Please arrive at The Good Shepherd by 7:30 am.
Attendees will need to bring their own lunch and snacks. Dinner will be on their own.
1. Walking Tour of Nogales, Mexico
Spend a meaningful day in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico with film maker, author and humanitarian aid volunteer David Damian Figueroa. Learn about the migrant experience and the work of the Green Valley/Sahuarita Samaritans while walking along the streets of Nogales. *Participants should wear good walking shoes. Bring cash for shopping and non-hosted lunch. Be able to walk up to 3 miles on uneven sidewalks and streets. Must bring a US passport. Limit: 10 participants.
2. Humane Borders Water Stations
Humane Borders was founded in 2000 to help stop the suffering in the desert by putting water out on well-traveled migrant trails. Spend the day with Humane Borders on one of their trips and experience the harshness of the desert, hear stories of migrant realities, and learn first-hand what Humane Borders provides. *Participants must wear closed-toed shoes and bring a water bottle.
3. Samaritans Water Drops
Accompany Green Valley/Sahuarita Samaritans as they deliver water and food to locations along possible migrant trails in the Sonoran Desert. *Participants must wear closed-toed shoes and bring a water bottle and snacks. Limit: 8 participants.
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4. Trip to Border Wall
Accompany Green Valley/Sahuarita Samaritans to experience the visual impact of the border wall along the US/Mexico border. *Participants must wear closed toed-shoes and bring a water bottle and snacks. Limit: 12 participants.​
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5. Desert Search
Accompany Green Valley/Sahuarita Samaritans as they drive along trails in the Sonoran Desert while possibly providing humanitarian aid to the people in need and learn about the Desert Search program. *Participants must wear closed-toed shoes and bring a water bottle and snacks. Limit: 8 participants.
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6. La Casa de la Misericordia
Visit this migrant shelter in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico run by Sister Lika. This trip will be led by pastor Randy Mayer. You will have opportunities to meet migrant families staying at the shelter while awaiting the next steps along their journey and to learn about the work of the shelter. Limit: 30 participants.
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7. Tumacácori and San Xavier del Bac Mission
Learn about the early history of this region while visiting these two historic sites. Rev Pedro Goycolea will lead a discussion about the persons and events that shaped the Sonoran Desert. *Participants should wear good walking shoes and bring cash for a quick lunch
Limit: 12 participants.
8. Install Memorial Crosses with Alvaro Enciso
Over 4000 human remains have been found in the Sonoran Desert. Alvaro Enciso makes and places crosses at sites where bodies have been found. Join him as he places crosses in the desert and participate in a short ritual remembering the lost. *Participants must wear closed-toed shoes and bring a water bottle and snacks. Limit: 12 participants.
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9. Migrant Memorial Walk
As migrants move across the Sonoran Desert many have lost their lives due to the harsh conditions of this area. Laurie Jurs will lead a memorial walk near her home to sites where crosses have been placed honoring those that have died along their journey. *Participants must wear closed-toed shoes and bring a water bottle and a hat is recommended. The trail is rocky and uneven. Limit: 12 participants.​​​​​​
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U.S. Immigration - Beyond the Border with Alyson Ball
Would you like to understand more about what’s happening with US immigration throughout the country? Come join the discussion about who has been at risk, what policy and procedural changes have been implemented, how these changes are affecting communities, and how some communities are organizing to push back.
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Alyson Ball, a winter resident of Green Valley, volunteers with the International Rescue Committee in Charlottesville, Virginia where she resides. She has studied global migrations, US immigration history and law, and current US immigrations policies for over 8 years – and gives fact-based presentations in Arizona and Virginia to inform the general public. Limit: 30 participants​
Listening with the Border: The Still Small Voice with Ted Virts
The focus of this workshop is one of silence and reflection through journaling, sketching, color play, and more. This safe space invites you to listen to the soft whisper of your experience here and to express those experiences as seems best to you. Paper, pens, pencils, colored brush pens, colored pencils will be provided. Meditative music will be played during the workshop. The session will last about an hour, with permission to leave early or stay longer.
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Ted Virts is a retired United Methodist minister, convener of the Good Shepherd’s monthly Taizé service, and an author of poetry. His interest is in how to connect everyday life with the holy that surrounds us.
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Weaving a Desert Memory with Charlene Virts
Fashion a piece of art that will remind you of the beauty and the harshness of the Sonoran Desert. In this workshop you will create a woven piece using cactus, bark, vines, grasses and found objects from the desert. Whether you participated in a trip to the wall or visited the mission or wandered the desert on the memorial walk, this weaving will be a reminder of your time there. All materials provided.
Charlene Virts is a fiber artist who has been weaving and creating pine needle baskets and sculptural pieces for 40 years. Limit: 12 participants
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Bridging the Border/How Can You Help with Rita Danks
Many people ask how they can help. This class will present various ideas on how to help those at the border, as well as those in your community. Different examples will be shown in class from the various projects currently in use to serve many. Ideas will also be presented on how to network and obtain donations.
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Rita Danks has been an active volunteer with Samaritans and Voices from the Border for over 10 years. She has created various projects to help those most in need. She was also very involved with immigrant activities in the Cleaveland area before moving to Green Valley.
Dora's Story with Dora Rodriguez
In a life-saving attempt to flee El Salvador’s civil war in 1980, Dora Rodriguez was one of thirteen survivors found near death while crossing the border though the Sonoran Desert. Her story of bravery, tenacity and advocacy for migrants’ rights is inspiriting and life-giving. How can each of us inspire and give life to the people around us? Dora and her co-author Abbey Carpenter will lead the conversation.
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Dora Rodriguez is a long-time humanitarian worker and speaker bringing the issues of the border across the country.
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Abbey Carpenter has worked, taught and volunteered in the areas of social justice and environmental sustainability. She is the author of several book relating to the border.
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Border Theology & Other Spiritual Thoughts with Randy Mayer and Father Ray
Father Ray Ridings and Rev. Randy Mayer will be sharing some of their thoughts and reflections about the border and immigration through the lens of faith and action. Both Ray and Randy are active Samaritans spending lots of time in the desert and with thousands of migrants and volunteers. In the midst of that work the holy and sacred have appeared.
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Randy Mayer is pastor of the Good Shepherd UCC and longtime humanitarian along the US/Mexico border.
Father Ray is a Catholic priest who spent years doing ministry in Latin America and is now doing ministry along the border.
The Welcome Quilt Project - Building a Movement to Reframe the Immigration Narrative with Gale Hall
In this “make and take” workshop you will experience a presentation about the Welcome Quilt Project (WQP) that you can replicate in your community when you return home. The WQP presents a public counter-narrative to the current negative rhetoric surrounding immigration in the United States. Instead of fearing or dehumanizing people who are seeking refuge and asylum in our country, this project strives to create a sense of community, hope, and support for them. Using the symbolic warmth of quilts, it welcomes them as neighbors and friends.
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In this workshop you will participate in empathy-based activities that accompany the actual making of Welcome Squares. The activities are vehicles to help you and others investigate and reflect on immigration - a topic that seems so big that we often feel overwhelmed or think that one person can’t make a difference. This workshop dispels that thinking by helping you offer concrete ways to encourage people to get involved, and then numerous ways to grow as they are moved to do so. The goal is to lead to positive creative activism as we examine our role as a welcoming nation.
Gale Hall, a retired professor of early childhood education created the Welcome Quilt Project in partnership with Voices from the Border to offer a counternarrative to dehumanizing language aimed at immigrants. Currently, as part of the Episcopal Migration Caucus she is developing curriculum for a church wide formation project on migration with a focus on children.
Flora & Fauna of the Desert with Erick Meza
Details Coming
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Erick Meza is the current Borderlands Coordinator for the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter and Permaculture educator from the Sonoran Desert.
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Mexican Cooking & Culture with Zandra Clarke
Details Coming
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What to Know About Migrant Detention in Your Area with Miles Pearson
Details Coming
Topics included are:
immigrant detention in Missouri
detention across the United States and in specific places people at the conference are from
Need for both direct service and systemic change
Nuts and bolts of stopping detention in Missouri. (What we have done; what we still need to do; hurdles)
How to stop detention in your areas
Miles Pearson, is a founding member and Southern Missouri Immigration Alliance (SMIA)
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