What Changed

As immigration enforcement — meaning government actions to find, arrest, and deport people who may be in the country without legal permission — increased under the Trump administration, many immigrant families began avoiding public places out of fear. This includes schools, daycares, clinics, and community centers. According to the American Immigration Council, a nonprofit immigration research and advocacy organization, even families with valid immigration status (meaning they have legal permission to be in the United States) pulled their children from programs because the rapid pace of new policies made it hard to know what the rules were.

In Philadelphia, childcare provider Damaris Alvarado-Rodriguez reported that parents in her Hispanic community “went into hiding.” The result: an entire classroom had to close, and five teachers — all U.S. citizens — lost their jobs.

Who Is Affected

This situation affects immigrant families broadly, but especially:

  • Hispanic and Latino families, including those with green cards (lawful permanent residence), work visas, or other valid immigration documents
  • Mixed-status families, where some members may be citizens or legal residents and others may not
  • Children, many of whom are U.S. citizens by birth, who are missing meals, education, and social support
  • Community workers and teachers, including U.S. citizens, whose jobs depend on serving immigrant communities

If you or someone you know has stopped going to school, work, or community programs out of fear, you are not alone. This is happening in cities across the country.

What You Should Do

This article is informational and is not legal advice. If you have concerns about your immigration status or rights, please speak with a qualified immigration attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative (a trained non-lawyer authorized to give immigration help).

  • Know your rights. Everyone in the United States — regardless of immigration status — has certain constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent.
  • Find a trusted legal resource. Contact a nonprofit immigration legal aid organization in your area.
  • Stay informed through official and trusted sources. Avoid rumors on social media, which can increase fear unnecessarily.
  • If your children need food or support, contact local food banks or community organizations — many serve families regardless of immigration status.

Official Sources

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and changes frequently. Please consult a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative for guidance specific to your situation.