ACCIÓN MIGRANTE: UNAM AND MEXICO’S FOREIGN MINISTRY JOIN FORCES
Following an agreement signed last December, UNAM and Mexico’s Foreign Ministry have launched Acción Migrante, an online platform providing legal and psychological support for Mexican migrants in the U.S. and returnees to Mexico.
Available at accionmigrante.unam.mx, the platform provides guidance in two key areas: legal assistance and psychological support, both delivered by UNAM specialists. The initiative is supported by UNAM’s five U.S. offices in Los Angeles, Tucson, San Antonio, Chicago, and Boston, as well as its northwest office in Tijuana and Mexico’s 53 consulates across the U.S.
Designed to be user-friendly, Acción Migrante allows migrants to connect easily with experts. The platform represents a major step in the collaboration between UNAM and the Foreign Ministry, with plans to expand its reach in the coming weeks.
Mexicans on both sides of the border experiencing emotional distress can access psychological support following a remote evaluation by university specialists. Assistance is available through direct calls, legal consultations, shelter information, and even WhatsApp messaging.
On the legal front, the platform provides essential information to help migrants understand their rights and protect themselves and their families from mistreatment by immigration authorities or law enforcement. Users can receive guidance on family separations, safeguarding their assets in case of deportation, and preparing for a potential return to Mexico, where they will always be welcomed.
During the launch event, UNAM Rector Leonardo Lomelí described the platform as a tangible example of how academia and government can work together. “Our university, with its expertise in education, research, and cultural outreach, and the Foreign Ministry, with its diplomatic network, show that collaboration is essential to tackling emerging challenges,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of supporting Mexicans abroad, especially those facing risks to their livelihoods, assets, and family unity.
Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente underscored the synergy between UNAM’s academic strengths and the efforts of Mexico’s consular network, the Institute for Mexicans Abroad, and key partnerships established by each consulate. He emphasized his gratitude for the collaboration, stressing the importance of unity during these times.
