Raids, Harassment, and Intimidation: What Migrants Can Expect with Trump’s Return

It’s not a matter of panic but instead of preparation: Expert

Migrant community members, including those who are undocumented, have a right to due process if Donald Trump’s administration, starting on January 20, 2025, attempts to deport them. Deportation is not instant, reassured Ingrid Echeverría, an attorney focused on immigration law and deportation defense in the U.S. She encourages the community to remain calm.

At least five million of the 11 million undocumented migrants targeted for deportation by the U.S. President-elect are estimated to be Mexican. Data from Mexico’s Secretariat of Foreign Affairs indicates that over 37 million individuals of Mexican descent reside in the United States. Of these, 26.7 million are second -or third- generation citizens, while 10.6 million were born in Mexico. Half of this latter group needs to possess the necessary documentation for legal entry and residency in the US.

Echeverría remarked, “We understand what to expect from Trump; there’s nothing unexpected. Being prepared is essential.” Similar to his first term, it’s expected that intimidation tactics will be used, including immigration raids at factories and other spots where undocumented individuals gather, along with the arrest of those with pending criminal charges, such as DUIs, regardless of whether their cases are ongoing or they have not been convicted yet.

Sigue leyendo:

Baja California alista 25 nuevos albergues para recibir a deportados mexicanos por Donald Trump

ICE agents sometimes use intimidating door knocks to compel residents to come outside. Echeverría stressed the importance of staying calm and knowing your rights. For example, individuals do not have to open the door and can request that any warrant be slid under it for them to examine.

Echeverría emphasized the importance of staying calm despite expected negative changes. He reminded us that deportation isn’t immediate and that the migrant community possesses rights that deserve respect. This statement was made during a binational discussion organized by Fuerza Migrante titled “Analysis and Comprehensive Strategy for the New Administration in the United States.”

She clarified that entering deportation proceedings doesn’t guarantee automatic removal. Individuals have the right to defend themselves and request a hearing. For instance, hearing dates in the East Coast region are now set for 2029, highlighting the extensive backlog of cases.

A deportation process, Echeverría noted, could take at least 10 years. Ironically, during this time, individuals in deportation proceedings may qualify for a work permit and defend themselves using legal relief such as Cancellation of Removal.

She also pointed out that significant delays in immigration courts are expected. “Right now, hearing dates are scheduled for 2029, which are for preliminary hearings, not final ones. The court backlog will triple in processing these cases,” she concluded, emphasizing that there are solutions.

Avoiding Fraud

Scammers posing as attorneys will likely try to exploit the uncertainty by offering services to help individuals regularize their immigration status. Heraldo USA shares some tips to reduce the risk of falling victim to fraud:

Those without a regularized immigration status should educate themselves about their rights and seek guidance and support from their nearest consulate. Consulates are safe spaces for Mexicans, regardless of their immigration status.
Learn about immigration procedures through the official U.S. government websites:
To find a network of authorized organizations and attorneys: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/page/file/942301/dl?inline
Be proactive, for example, by filing an immigrant visa petition through a family connection.