Gabriela, a housekeeper in Maryland, is one of many undocumented migrants living in the US who are concerned about the mass deportation plans of the incoming Trump administration. While some, like Gabriela, feel they have nothing to worry about as law-abiding taxpayers, others fear the uncertainty and potential consequences of these plans. The administration’s focus on public safety and national security threats has sparked discussions among migrants in their communities, with experts warning of the logistical challenges and financial implications of carrying out mass deportations.
Trump’s promises to remove immigrants have caused fear among many, including Dreamers like Eric Bautista who, despite benefitting from protection against deportation, now face uncertainty and anxiety about their future in the US. Legal experts predict a potential increase in “collateral arrests,” where undocumented individuals without criminal convictions could be caught up in enforcement actions targeting others. This has led to concerns about separation of families and the impact on the broader economy, as undocumented migrants play a crucial role in various sectors.
Despite some migrants holding out hope for an improved economy under Trump’s leadership, the overall atmosphere remains tense and uncertain. The possibility of workplace raids, re-implementation of workplace detention practices, and enforcement actions targeting individuals far from the border has left many living in fear of being separated from their families and livelihoods. The future for undocumented migrants in the US remains uncertain as they navigate the potential impacts of the Trump administration’s mass deportation plans.
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