NEW HAVEN, CT (WFSB) — President-Elect Donald Trump’s proposed immigration policy, including mass deportations, has left many undocumented residents in Connecticut fearful for their futures. Thousands of individuals across the state are now fighting for their rights and protection as the new administration’s plans move forward.
Paula Naranjo, a college student from an immigrant family, is among those worried about the impact of the president-elect’s deportation strategy. With Trump aiming to make mass deportation a national priority, potentially utilizing military resources, Naranjo fears for her family’s safety.
“I go to college, but I don’t know what will happen after I graduate. I’m scared of being separated from my family,” she said.
Naranjo was one of many who gathered outside New Haven City Hall in a show of solidarity with Unida Latina En Accion (United Latinos in Action), a group advocating for immigrant rights.
Jon Lugo, an organizer of Monday night’s rally, expressed concern that undocumented residents in Connecticut are especially anxious about Trump’s second term. He believes the president-elect will have more power and resources at his disposal to target the immigrant community.
“He’s got more experience and more tools to attack the community, and that’s why people are so afraid,” Lugo said.
Lugo’s group has been working with local and state leaders to ensure the safety of immigrants in Connecticut.
Although he did not attend Monday’s rally, New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker recently spoke at an immigration event in Hartford. Elicker reassured attendees of the city’s commitment to supporting all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
“New Haven is a welcoming and inclusive city, and Connecticut is a welcoming and inclusive state,” he said. “We will do everything we can to ensure our residents feel safe and valued as part of our community.”
New Haven Alderman Richard Furlow, who also attended the rally, highlighted ongoing efforts by the Board of Aldermen to protect immigrants in the city. He emphasized the challenges in crafting legislation that balances safety with the potential loss of federal funding.
“We’ve been working on this for years,” Furlow said. “It’s not just about creating a law that magically makes everyone safe. We’re trying to get the wording right to protect the city.”
La Unidad de Accion, the organizing group, stated that this rally is just the beginning. They are planning additional rallies in New Haven in the coming months to continue advocating for immigrant rights.
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