In response to Donald Trump's reelection, migrant support groups are gearing up for the potential implementation of mass deportations promised by the president-elect. Immigration attorney Camille Mackler, along with over 80 legal service providers in New York State, are prepared to defend the rights of immigrants who were previously not considered a priority for removal by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Mackler expressed concerns about a potential broader scope for deportations, stating, 'We can expect a much bigger drag net for deportation. Right now, there is some prioritization of who ICE's resources would be deployed against, and I think now they're just going after anyone they can.' She also highlighted the challenges immigrants may face in finding legal representation due to attorney shortages, especially with potential pressure on immigration judges to expedite case adjudications under the incoming Trump administration.
Meanwhile, some houses of worship in New York City are making preparations to offer sanctuary to immigrants in need. The Interfaith Center of New York has been actively involved in coordinating a humanitarian response to the migrant crisis in the city, utilizing churches, synagogues, and mosques to provide temporary shelter for asylum-seekers. Rev. Chloe Breyer, the director of the non-profit, emphasized the network's readiness to mobilize against extreme measures such as deportation.
Reports suggest that Trump's allies and certain private sector entities have been quietly strategizing for the large-scale detention and deportation of migrants residing in the US. Initial discussions within Trump's team have focused on prioritizing the removal of undocumented immigrants with criminal records. Additionally, deliberations are ongoing regarding the fate of immigrants brought to the US as children, commonly referred to as Dreamers.
