Operation Gatekeeper

Author: Naivy Pérez

Title: Operation Gatekeeper

Year: 2016

Genre: Net Art

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STATEMENT

Operation Gatekeeper and its historical-political legacy confronts conventional notions of persistence and recognition. As users embark on this journey, they face a symbolic wall, a digital representation that accurately emulates the distance of the border wall between Mexico and the United States. But this wall extends beyond mere geography; it is a testament to the division between two worlds, between multiple realities and chimeras.

As the user moves along, traversing the length of this digital barrier, they are confronted with the tenacity and perseverance necessary to overcome real and symbolic obstacles. The length of the journey, though tedious in a digital environment, is but a pale shadow of the true voyage undertaken by millions who have left behind lands, memories, and loved ones in search of a better future.

However, Operation Gatekeeper is not just a representation of struggle and resistance. It is also a space for recognition and commemoration. Those who persist and reach the end of this digital journey can inscribe their names, joining a pantheon of resilience. This allegorical action not only pays tribute to their personal determination but also evokes the spirit of countless souls who have crossed borders, defied barriers and risking everything for a dream.

In a world where physical and digital barriers often dehumanize us, Operation Gatekeeper serves as a poignant reminder that behind every obstacle, whether made of brick, wire, or pixels, there are human stories of sacrifice, hope, and courage.

Note: Operation Gatekeeper, launched in 1994, was a U.S. strategy to strengthen its border in San Diego, California, and reduce illegal immigration by channeling migrants towards areas that posed greater challenges. The term resurfaced in 2016 when Donald Trump, during his presidential campaign, made immigration a central issue. Using “Gatekeeper” as a reference, he advocated for the construction of a border wall, turning it into a divisive and focal point of his electoral rhetoric.