Washington D.C. - Human rights activists with the Southern Border Communities Coalition (SBCC) are in Washington D.C. this week to continue advocating for oversight and accountability of Customs and Border Protection (CBP).  Andrea Guerrero, Executive Director of Alliance San Diego and Co-Chair of the SBCC, and Christian Ramirez, Human Rights Director at Alliance San Diego and Director of the SBCCC are leading voices on border issues with years of experience advocating for border communities and families.

Their visit to DC comes on the heels of an announcement by CBP to reject the use of body-worn cameras as an oversight mechanism to control an agency that has proven to be incapable of resolving its systemic problems with abuse, corruption and impunity.

Additionally, to the surprise of many, the Department of Justice also recently announced they would not prosecute border agents involved in the high profile murder case of San Diego resident, Anastasio Hernández Rojas. His death was video recorded and witnessed by many who were crossing one of the busiest ports of entry along the southern border.  Maria Puga, widow of Anastasio Hernandez Rojas, has stated, "If the agents had been wearing cameras, there would have been enough evidence to prosecute the agents who murdered my husband, or perhaps he would have not been killed."

Since last week's announcement, Maria launched a petition which has been signed by hundreds of people, calling for President Obama to equip all border agents with body-worn cameras, and to launch an administrative investigation into Anastasio's death.

Andrea and Christian are available for interviews and comments upon request. Please contact Chakiara Tucker to arrange interviews.