As the possibility of mass deportations looms under President-elect Donald Trump’s second term, immigrant rights groups in Texas are urging undocumented residents to prepare for the worst. In San Juan, Texas, an information session organized by La Union del Pueblo Entero (LUPE) emphasized the importance of having a plan in place for what could be a disruptive and traumatic event: deportation.
The Reality of Deportation Risks
For undocumented immigrants in Texas, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley, deportation has long been a daily concern. However, with Trump’s campaign focused on mass deportations and the strong support from Texas’ Republican leaders, the risk is now more imminent than ever. LUPE’s community organizing director, Joaquin Garcia, stressed the importance of planning ahead, asking attendees to consider practical matters like child care, bill payments, and property management in case they were detained.
The estimated 1.6 million undocumented immigrants in Texas face a heightened sense of anxiety as the new administration prepares to ramp up deportation efforts. Though Trump’s inauguration isn’t until January 20, advocacy groups like LUPE are working to ensure that undocumented individuals are informed and ready.
Preparing for Deportation
LUPE’s informational campaign, which includes “Know Your Rights” sessions, encourages undocumented individuals to think about what they would do if detained. The sessions feature role-playing scenarios, such as a traffic stop or an arrest, to illustrate the rights immigrants have in such situations. These training sessions are designed not only to inform but also to help participants plan their next steps in case they face detention.
Attendees at the meeting had many questions. Some wanted to know what information they are legally required to disclose if detained, whether cohabiting with undocumented residents could lead to legal trouble, and what the potential benefits of self-deportation might be. Although the LUPE staff was not able to answer all questions, they emphasized the importance of seeking legal counsel and attending future sessions for more in-depth guidance.
Skepticism and Hope for the Future
While the training was meant to empower attendees, some individuals expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of knowing one’s rights. One woman shared her belief that even if she followed all the correct procedures, some immigration officials might not respect those rights and would deport her regardless. This feeling of uncertainty, shared by many, reflects the broader fear in immigrant communities as they wait to see how deportation policies will be enforced.
For now, many undocumented residents in the Rio Grande Valley are left to navigate this waiting game, unsure of what the future holds. However, LUPE’s training sessions aim to provide at least a sense of preparedness and agency in a rapidly changing environment.
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