Immigration Advocates Brace for Trump’s Mass Deportation Plans, Pledge Legal Fight

As President-elect Donald Trump approaches his second inauguration, immigration advocates are gearing up to challenge his proposed mass deportation policies. These groups express concerns about a potential resurgence of stringent immigration measures that defined his first term.

Greisa Martínez Rosas, executive director of United We Dream Action, described the situation as “dangerous and terrifying.” Advocates anticipate the reinstatement of policies such as the Remain in Mexico program, which forces asylum seekers to stay in precarious conditions while their cases are processed. The expected revival of Title 42, a health policy that enabled the expulsion of migrants during the pandemic, adds to their apprehension.

Martínez Rosas also highlighted the uncertain future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which Trump previously attempted to dismantle. However, he has recently indicated a willingness to collaborate with Democrats on creating a legal pathway for DACA recipients.

In preparation, Martínez Rosas outlined a three-pronged strategy: maintaining calm, providing community support, and pursuing litigation to protect rights where necessary. “We are ready for the next four years,” she asserted.

Gustavo Torres, executive director of the immigrant advocacy group CASA, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized the coalition’s efforts to educate immigrant communities about their rights, particularly when facing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions.

CASA has organized Know Your Rights workshops in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, connecting various stakeholders, including faith groups and businesses, to create a unified front against potential deportations. Torres stated, “We will not stand by while families are separated and lives are disrupted.”

Trump’s administration is reportedly assembling a team to implement his mass deportation strategies, led by border czar Tom Homan and deputy chief of staff for policy Stephen Miller. Their history of enforcing harsh immigration measures raises alarms among advocates. Zachary Mueller from America’s Voice expressed concerns about their approach, particularly regarding family separations.

Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), reported active community engagement to combat impending policies. Her organization has held Know Your Rights sessions and maintains a hotline for legal support. Collaborations with immigration attorneys are also taking place to assist affected families.

Salas stressed the importance of political advocacy, urging Congress not to fund DHS for mass detentions and deportations. “What is certain today is that we’re more organized, we’re more prepared, we’re more resilient and united,” she declared, indicating strong readiness to confront the incoming administration.