Mass deportation refers to the removal of an ethnic group, sending individuals back to their original country. Days after President Donald Trump signed executive orders to push immigration arrests, numerous ICE “routine operations” began. Since Trump’s return to office, ICE authorities have arrested more than 8,200 people. Trump has declared illegal immigration a national emergency.
In 2024, U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed more people from the U.S. than in any other year since 2015 (ICE Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report).
ICE reported deportations of more than 271,000 unauthorized immigrants in the year 2024. While under the Biden administration, deportation policies focused on the removal of individuals who posed a threat to the public. President Trump’s administration was reportedly directed to track down hundreds of migrant children who entered America. Along with all immigrants who have entered America. These reports have raised concerns that the policies could violate due process rights.
“We are deeply concerned that the individuals whom Trump is deporting, who have recent deportation orders, were never actually screened properly for fear of returning to their country,” stated Hannah Flamm, interim senior director of policy at the International Refugee Assistance Project.
The fear of returning to Mexico is not only because of the lost opportunities but moreover the risk and danger.
Laredo, Mexico Border
The Mexico National Guard has set up checkpoints along the border for inspection. Those traveling through Laredo have voiced concerns about the delays caused by these checkpoints. Laredo has always been a more dangerous route, but recently, conditions have worsened. In December of 2024, many migrants were returning to/visiting Mexico. In order to cross the border in a vehicle, you must obtain a vehicle permit. While the permit can be obtained online, many struggle to get it in advance. This requires them to fill out the permit request in person at the immigration customs institution. The conditions at the institution are unsafe and slow. Migrants stand outside in line, waiting hours to enter the building.
“Esta medio fuerte, muy peligroso, y estaban robando carros,” said Anonymous, which translates to “It’s kind of strong, very dangerous, and they were stealing cars.”
While migrants and children wait around in poor conditions, officials pick and choose who they would like to serve first.
The Mexican community is stuck in a loophole in terms of residing or relocating.
Latino Community
For many Latinos, the administration’s deportation record is a sustained attack on Latino families and communities (Detention, Deportation, and Devastation).
The Latino community has stepped up to make their voices heard, and dozens of protests have taken place since the crackdown on immigrants. Large-scale protests have already taken place in Alabama, California, South Carolina, Georgia, Indiana, Illinois, and Texas. Last month, the administration said it would allow immigration arrests in schools, churches, and hospitals. This terminates a policy that has been in effect since 2011. Teachers and students worry about if and when a raid could take place. While students and migrants continue to voice their concerns, another concern goes unnoticed: the Mexico border. Border conditions have increased a level of unsafety with immigrants trying to return. Unsafe conditions continue to rise in the U.S. and Mexico.
What this means for the community
Hundreds of Iowans gathered to protest in the form of these deportations. Immigrants are crucial when it comes to growing the labor force and economic growth. These deportations have a long-lasting impact on all communities, even Muscatine. The ongoing operation has left thousands in fear of deportation. Know your rights and if you or someone you know is at risk.
