Migrants Remain at Home Amid Fears of Trump’s Threats of Mass Deportation | US News
“You often hear on the news about undocumented individuals and illegal immigrants, and it hits you—it’s referring to you.
“There’s a persistent fear that lingers in your mind. When you’re out and someone is staring, you wonder: Who are they? Have they reported me?”
Franklin isn’t his real name; he has requested anonymity. He is an African migrant escaping political persecution in a country he prefers not to disclose.
His caution underscores the fear that discussing his situation with the media could risk his asylum application in this new Trump administration, yet he feels compelled to share his story.
“Maybe my words can help others”, he expresses. “They’ll realize they’re not alone.”
President Trump has vowed to initiate the largest deportation effort in U.S. history, with new border czar Tom Homan stating that they will prioritize targeting “the worst offenders first”.
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Franklin has not committed any crime, violent or otherwise. He shouldn’t have to feel this way. Yet, he does.
“When you’re going from door to door, or visiting restaurants, how can one differentiate between hardened criminals and those who aren’t?”, questions Anuj Gupta, director of The Welcoming Centre in Philadelphia, an NGO dedicated to fostering economic growth through immigrant assimilation.
The Welcoming Center has developed notes for clients to decline collaboration with ICE due to fears of mass raids
“The anxiety surrounding potential raids looms large, regardless of your immigration status. This fear is often more powerful than any actual policy or actions that might follow. It also suppresses people’s willingness to engage in daily activities.”
Africatown, located in Southwest Philadelphia, serves as a central point for the African community, with some residents having lived here for decades while others are newer arrivals.
Artwork in Africantown, Philadelphia
A mural in Philadelphia’s Africatown
Africatown proudly showcases its rich heritage, adorned with vibrant street murals and African flags lining Woodland Avenue, where a variety of shops and small businesses are situated.
A new $23 million community center, the Africa Centre, is set to be completed by next April, exemplifying successful immigrant entrepreneurship.
“Many individuals are too afraid to come out due to Trump’s threats, particularly those lacking documentation,” Sullay mentions, hinting at the relatively quiet atmosphere on the streets.
ACANA (African Cultural Alliance of North America) in Philadelphia
The fear of potential ICE raids, known for enforcing immigration laws, hangs heavily over the community. Alternatively, the frigid weather, dipping to minus 12 in Philadelphia on Thursday, might also be a factor.
Amadou, not his real name, from Guinea, feels optimistic about the progress of his asylum application. He believes in the process and proudly shares details of his application via the Biden-era app, which aims to offer a legal pathway to asylum and mentions his scheduled hearing later this year.
“I admire Donald Trump,” Amadou states. “I believe he is a good president. If he advocates for America First, that might be beneficial.
“If my leader said Guinea First, that would be good as well. Who knows, perhaps I would remain there.”
