Article Summary –
Arizona’s immigrant community braces for Trump’s return, fearing mass deportations and an end to birthright citizenship. With Trump’s rhetoric and proposed policies creating anxiety, families like those in Phoenix are preparing for potential deportations, while teachers observe rising fears among immigrant students.
Arizona’s immigrant community is anxious after Trump’s re-election, threatening mass deportations. Trump pledged to execute the “largest deportation operation in American history,” enforcing a “border crackdown” and revoking birthright citizenship.
Although difficult to implement, Trump’s stance worries immigrants and minorities. Rebecca Denis from Poder in Action notes Trump’s rhetoric reveals his views on these communities. With a Trump presidency looming, preparation is underway.
Bracing for Challenges
Arizona hosts around 250,000 undocumented immigrants, about 3.5% of the population, alongside 700,000 with permanent residency, refugee status, or pursuing citizenship. All face deportation risks, irrespective of legal status.
Nina Franco, a social worker in Phoenix, mentors undocumented youth and mixed-status families. Despite challenges, she stresses community readiness. Trump’s promise to end birthright citizenship will likely trigger Supreme Court opposition.
Concerns stem from Trump’s cabinet choices, including Tom Homan, a proponent of mass deportations. Former ICE director, Homan backed the “zero tolerance” policy, separating families at the border.
Franco’s colleagues anticipate deportations. One coworker, the only US-born adult in her family, braces to care for six children alone.
Immigration rhetoric from Trump’s administration fuels fear and misinformation, Franco states, questioning claims that “only criminals” face deportation.
‘Are My Parents at Risk of Deportation?’
Goodyear resident Lexsiri Coronado mentions her family’s constant deportation fears, dating back to the SB1070 era. Her father recently became a permanent resident; her mother is still in process.
Recalling the Obama-era deportations, Coronado feels presidential policies don’t mitigate immigrant threats.
South Phoenix teacher Alexia Isais, who instructs many Latino and immigrant students, reports students asking if they face deportation risks.
“Genuine fear” grips her students, who express concern over racial profiling. Isais’ grandfather fears Prop 314 could lead to unwarranted detainment, reminiscent of SB1070’s profiling practices.
November’s election saw Joe Arpaio’s associate, Jerry Sheridan, return to lead Maricopa County. Arpaio’s notorious neighborhood sweeps involved racial profiling, scrutinizing Latino drivers’ immigration status.
Sheridan, held in contempt for ignoring court orders against profiling, appears on the Brady List of officers with credibility issues.
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