Immigration is a hot topic these days, and I often find myself trying to explain to others why Hondurans might attempt to make the treacherous journey to the U.S. Certainly there are a number of reasons including persistent poverty, high unemployment, and catastrophic climate changes but I’m going to focus on violence.

Growing up in poverty, leads to violence, and permeates all areas of life. There is domestic violence, interpersonal violence and structural violence. All cause a tremendous amount of fear and trauma but gang violence is truly a matter of life and death. If they want you to join, you have three choices: join, leave or be killed.

In areas with high gang activity almost half of the students drop out. The walk to school is too dangerous crossing through one territory into another. Gang members are present in schools selling drugs, extorting money, and recruiting new members (as young as six). We have had students held up at knife point on the streets, and shot on the bus.

They terrorize, rape, kidnap, blackmail and murder. Their money is made on drug sales, human trafficking and arms deals. Impunity and corruption are vast throughout Honduras. Gangs impose a “war tax” on households, businesses and transportation workers. If you don’t comply in paying your monthly fee, you or a family member will be killed.

I was introduced to these two men on the streets of Comayagua. I don’t know their names or “occupations” and I certainly wouldn’t say if I did. When people in Honduras ask why I am there, I make it clear it is to help the children. I’m not sure if that earns any respect but I can honestly say that I’ve never felt in danger or had any trouble.

When the fear of fleeing is less than the fear of staying, the journey to the States begins. And the danger and violence will continue through Guatemala and Mexico. It’s called desperation and the will to live, and provide food for your children. Plain and simple. What would you do?