Ernie Macatuno

Simon's Sanctuary Ernie Macatuno

Simon's Sanctuary is a classic in its portrayal of immigrant life in America. Simon Matin, his wife Clara, and their children Lorna and Sonny are political refugees from the Philippines. They settle down in Los Angeles at a time when the city is gripped with fear and anxiety over the King trial. In this highly charged case, four white police officers are accused of beating up a black motorist named Rodney King. Like most immigrants, though, the Matins are more concerned with starting a new life in America. They dream of a home of their own, jobs to suit their skills and aptitudes, and college education for the children. They seek political asylum with the help of Saul Levy, a Jewish immigration lawyer married to Agnes, who is also a Filipino. Their lawyer-client relationship grows into a friendship. Much of the immigrant life is seen through the eyes of Simon and Saul. Their views often differed. Where Simon's is often jaundiced by his struggle against racial prejudice, Saul's is sympathetic, his sympathy arising from his own immigrant background and marriage to Agnes. The racial tension in the King trial erupts into violence, bringing tragedy, whose blows in the end are softened by Christian faith and friendship.