Chicago Braces for Potential Deportation Efforts under Incoming Trump Administration
Local Immigration Advocates Prepare for Potential Mass Deportation Efforts
CHICAGO – Local immigration advocates continue preparing for potential mass deportation efforts that could reportedly start as soon as Tuesday.
Immigration Advocates Express Concern and Condolence
Archbishop of Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich is in Mexico City on a pilgrimage. During a Sunday mass service, he extended his best wishes to the incoming Trump administration as President-elect Trump prepares to take office on Monday, but Cupich strongly condemned targeting undocumented people, expressing concern over the imminent threat of deportations.
“The Catholic community stands with the people of Chicago speaking out in defense of the rights of immigrants and asylum seekers,” Cupich said. “If the reports are true, it should be known that we would oppose any plan that includes a mass deportation of U.S. citizens born of undocumented parents.”
Immigrant Rights Group Preparing for Increased Immigration Enforcement
Immigrant rights group Asian American Advancing Justice Chicago states they have been preparing for increased immigration enforcement since the election results were announced. Executive Director Grace Pai told WGN News it’s understandable for undocumented individuals to feel scared, but there’s no need to panic yet.
She also reminds people that they have the right to remain silent and not disclose their citizenship status to immigration officers.
“I want to wait and see what actions are taken,” Pai said. “It’s very easy for the administration to say things that instill fear, but it’s different for them to have increased presence out in Chicago.”
Reports of Potential Deportation Efforts
Reports previously suggested the Trump administration could target Chicago with immigration raids and patrols beginning as soon as Tuesday, as Chicago is a sanctuary city with a large immigrant population.
“The president is ready to go day – minute one on getting these people out of the United States,” Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Florida), incoming national security advisor, said on CNN State of the Union.
It’s uncertain when and where deportation operations will begin, but Waltz said that the border czar will implement much more aggressive ICE action.
“We are going to start with the worst of the worst of the criminals to get them out of our cities and out of our communities,” Waltz said.
Conclusion
As the Trump administration prepares to take office, local immigration advocates are bracing for potential mass deportation efforts. While it’s unclear when and where these efforts will begin, advocates are urging undocumented individuals to remain calm and to exercise their rights. The Catholic community has also spoken out against targeting undocumented people, emphasizing the importance of defending the rights of immigrants and asylum seekers.
FAQs
Q: When will the deportation efforts begin?
A: It’s unclear when and where deportation operations will begin, but reports suggest they could start as soon as Tuesday.
Q: What is the Trump administration’s plan for immigration enforcement?
A: The Trump administration has stated that securing the border and addressing illegal immigration will be a primary focus. However, it’s unclear what specific measures will be taken and when.
Q: What can undocumented individuals do to prepare?
A: Advocates recommend exercising caution and remaining silent if approached by immigration officers. It’s also important to seek legal advice and to stay informed about the situation.
