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As Donald Trump prepares to take office again on January 20, 2025, undocumented Latino immigrants are bracing for what will be another period of heightened immigration enforcement and policy uncertainty. Trump's prior presidency saw a crackdown on undocumented immigration, and his rhetoric during the 2024 campaign suggests more aggressive measures such as mass deportations and limiting protections for vulnerable populations.
For many undocumented immigrants, this means navigating an intensified atmosphere of fear and instability. Families may face the renewed threat of separation, particularly those with mixed-status households. Programs like DACA, which have provided temporary protection to undocumented youth, could once again come under attack. Community organizations that offer legal aid and advocacy may find themselves overwhelmed by demand as immigrants seek help preparing for potential legal challenges.
However, there is also a growing awareness and mobilization within immigrant communities. Undocumented immigrants can expect to see increased efforts by advocacy groups to create support networks, provide legal resources, and push back against harsh policies. Many faith-based and political organizations are expanding their roles as safe havens for families facing deportation.
As Trump returns to power, the future for undocumented Latino immigrants remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: resilience and solidarity will be critical to navigating the challenges ahead.
You have a choice: sit back and watch or get involved now! Here are a few ways to make a difference:
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Amplify you voice. Join statewide organizations like DLOV. See below about joining; you have 5 days to join for this critical year. I joined today.
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Volunteer to be a temporary guardian. Consider executing a Power of Attorney for Temporary Guardianship granting temporary guardianship over children who find themselves alone when parents are picked up by authorities.
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Volunteer to be a "safe address." Offer your address for immigrants who have pending actions with immigration so their actual address is unknown to ICE.
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Volunteer your time. Your involvement is needed if you are a legal professional or can give time to organizations like Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS). NVFS offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, including tutoring, translations, legal aid, and resettlement assistance.
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Educate yourself and others. You can learn about the refugee crisis by reading and sharing stories, attending lectures, and spreading awareness.
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Advocate. You can advocate for refugees by contacting government representatives and sharing posts on social media.
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Support education. You can support programs that provide educational opportunities for refugees.
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Attend meetings. You can attend our Latino Caucus meetings and town hall and school board meetings to voice your support for immigrants and refugees.
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Encourage elected officials. You can encourage your elected officials, teachers, principal, or superintendent to support immigrants and undocumented students.
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Talk to faith leaders. You can talk to faith leaders about ways to support immigrants and refugees.
Most of us reading this Boletín are natural-born or naturalized citizens. I wish you and your family a good and prosperous New Year. For those of you who are fearful of the next 4 years: know that there is an entire army of us out here ready to help. Para ti te deseo la paz y la serenidad que has viajado tan lejos para disfrutar.
Maritza Zermeño, Chair
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