What does AMARI AND Haley go through in harbor me by Jacqueline Woodson
In the novel "Harbor Me" by Jacqueline Woodson, the characters Amari and Haley, along with four other students, participate in a weekly gathering called the "Harbor Me" room. In this room, they are provided a safe space to share their experiences and emotions. Throughout the story, Amari and Haley go through various struggles and triumphs. Here are some of the key experiences they face:
1. Amari's father is detained by ICE: Amari's father is an undocumented immigrant who gets arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), causing Amari a significant amount of distress and uncertainty about her family's future.
2. Haley's mother is in prison: Haley's mother is incarcerated, leaving Haley feeling isolated and stigmatized. She grapples with her emotions, attempting to navigate the pain and confusion she feels about her mother's actions.
3. Friendship and support: Amari and Haley find solace and understanding in their friendship and within the Harbor Me group. They come to rely on each other and their fellow students to support one another through their challenging experiences.
4. Learning about each other's perspectives: Through their conversations in the Harbor Me room, Amari and Haley gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by their peers. They learn about each other's cultures, backgrounds, and personal struggles, fostering empathy and creating a sense of unity among the group.
5. Advocacy and empowerment: Amari and Haley, along with their friends, find ways to speak up and advocate for their rights. They learn about social justice issues, actively participate in protests, and strive to make positive changes in their communities.
6. Healing and personal growth: Both Amari and Haley experience personal growth and healing throughout the novel. They find strength within themselves and their friendships to face their fears, overcome their past traumas, and embrace hope for their futures.
"Harbor Me" sensitively addresses themes such as immigration, incarceration, racism, and the power of empathy, highlighting the experiences Amari and Haley go through in navigating these complex issues.