The Trump administration has issued new guidance allowing immigration enforcement officials to enter spaces that were previously considered off-limits, such as schools, churches, and healthcare facilities. Immigrant advocacy groups are reacting by advising individuals to be prepared in case enforcement actions occur at these locations.
The new rules from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) direct Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to no longer avoid what they term “sensitive areas.” This includes institutions like schools, religious centers, and health facilities, which were traditionally protected spaces for the immigrant community.
DHS Statement on New Rules
A DHS spokesperson defended the new policy, stating, “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest.” The spokesperson emphasized that the Trump administration is committed to empowering law enforcement to act freely and use their judgment.
However, advocates for immigrants have expressed deep concerns about the potential consequences of this policy.
Immigrant Advocacy Groups Urge Preparedness
Tere Flores Onofre, director of program strategy at Sacramento Area Congregations Together (Sacramento ACT), a multi-faith organization that trains immigrants on their rights, stressed the importance of understanding the law. “You still need a warrant to enter any location and arrest someone,” she explained, noting that such warrants must be signed by a judge. “We are still a country of rules and laws.”
Sacramento ACT is also advising immigrants to have a plan in case they are detained or arrested by immigration enforcement officials. Flores Onofre said that fear is widespread within the immigrant communities they serve.
“Even though it might feel like we need to go into panic mode, I think it’s important to try to remain as objective as we can,” she added.
Efforts to Limit Enforcement in California
Flores Onofre also expressed hope that California state lawmakers would act to curb the impact of these federal guidelines. Two bills have already been filed in the state legislature to limit immigration enforcement’s ability to enter schools.
Community Leaders Express Concerns About Racial Profiling
Frankie Ramos, director of campaigns and organizing for Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice, an organization supporting youth and families affected by incarceration, acknowledged that the new guidance could lead to increased racial profiling.
Ramos encouraged individuals, particularly those without documentation, to continue attending school, church, and medical appointments. “It would be really unlikely that somebody would be rounded up,” she said. However, she expressed concern that these new policies would lead to more policing and surveillance of immigrant communities.
“These policies automatically mean more policing, more surveillance, and anybody can get stopped,” Ramos said.
Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful that advocacy groups can reassure immigrant families that they do not need to live in fear or hide at home.
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