Chicago – December 23, 2024
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second term, immigrant communities are taking steps to protect themselves from potential mass deportations.
In Los Angeles, Winston Leiva, from the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, spoke to immigrants about how to prepare. He urged them to plan for their children’s care if they are arrested, avoid opening doors unless authorities present a signed warrant, and remember their right to remain silent.
Across the country, advocacy groups are hosting workshops to help immigrants understand their rights and how to protect themselves from deportation.
These sessions are being held in states with strong protections for immigrants, like California and Illinois, and in states with stricter laws, such as Florida. For example, Connecticut Students for a Dream recently warned immigrants not to speak to immigration agents without a lawyer present.
Immigrant advocates are also encouraging people eligible for U.S. citizenship or other benefits to apply quickly, as long processing times may become longer under the new administration.
In Chicago, legal clinics are helping immigrants resolve cases before Trump takes office.
Fear is widespread, with even U.S. citizens reaching out, worried about how immigration policies could affect them and their families.
