President Donald Trump’s executive actions on immigration are not deterring migrants from illegally crossing the US-Mexico border, according to a human rights advocate. The advocate reported that despite the executive actions, eight migrants were seen near the border wall waiting to be taken to a detention center by Customs and Border Protection agents.
Advocate operates an aid tent near the border wall, providing information about immigration law and offering water, hot beverages, and food to arriving migrants as they wait to be processed. However, on Tuesday, no migrants accepted donations or engaged in conversation with the advocate.
The advocate emphasized that the immediate effects of the executive actions may not be seen on the ground right away. Advocate expressed concerns about the impact on migrant communities, both those already residing in the US and those in transit to the country.
“What I am concerned about the most is the fear and uncertainty it will instill in migrant communities, whether they are already in the US or attempting to arrive here,” advocate stated. They anticipate that fear and uncertainty will be prevalent among migrants due to the recent developments.
Advocate also warned of a potential rise in injuries and fatalities among individuals attempting to cross the US-Mexico border in more remote areas. The advocate attributed this risk to the policies and executive orders that are limiting safe entry opportunities and undermining the asylum system.
