LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — A Las Vegas-based organization brought together 27 families from Hidalgo, Mexico, reuniting parents and children who had spent years — in some cases, nearly three decades — apart.
The Federacion Hidalguense of Las Vegas facilitated the reunions, helping elderly parents navigate the process of obtaining visitor visas so they could see their loved ones again.
Families reunited after decades apart
Las Vegas local Genesis Pascual described the moment as both nerve-wracking and exciting.
“It’s nerve-wracking, but it’s a little exciting, so we’re just a little bit overwhelmed, but happy at the same time,” Pascual said.
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For Pascual, the reunion carried added significance — it marked the first time she met her grandfather, and the first time her father had seen his own father in more than 20 years.
“The first time he visits us, the first time he is going to explore somewhere outside of Mexico,” Pascual said. “So it’s really exciting because we’re excited to show him what’s out there.”
‘A great sadness’ when families are separated
Isidro Maqueda, president of the Federacion Hidalguense of Las Vegas, said the emotional weight of long-term family separation drives the organization’s work.
“Siento que es importante porque hay una gran tristeza cuando bien una persona deja su familia en México,” Maqueda said. (“I feel it’s important because there is a great sadness when a person leaves their family in Mexico.”)
During the reunion event, the ballroom filled with applause and embraces. Announcements noted some families had been separated for 27 years, others for 26, and some for 20.
One attendee, reuniting with family after years apart, said simply: “Bien, contento, feliz.” (“I feel so happy, so happy.”)
Raices de Hidalgo program active since 2017
The Federacion Hidalguense of Las Vegas has operated its Raices de Hidalgo program since 2017.
Many of the visiting parents will spend approximately one month with their children, grandchildren, and relatives in Las Vegas before returning to Mexico.
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