Immigrant communities across the United States are bracing for what many fear could be one of the most aggressive mass deportation policies in history, as reactions to President Donald Trump's anticipated return to the White House ramp up. The atmosphere is one of uncertainty and resilience, particularly evident at La Morada, a small, immigrant-owned Oaxacan restaurant in the South Bronx.
La Morada, which doubles as a community center, has become a beacon of hope for undocumented individuals since its inception. Co-owner Natalia Mendez, who describes herself as an undocumented immigrant with over three decades of experience living in the U.S., stated, “If I had received this news 20 years ago, right now I would be crying, shaking with fear.” This sentiment encapsulates the anxiety many feel as Trump promises to initiate mass deportations on his first day back.
Mayor Eric Adams of New York City has already signaled potential changes to the city's sanctuary city policies, pledging executive orders to limit local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. This is creating alarms within the immigrant community. Yet, Mendez and the restaurant's owners strive to maintain optimism, stating the restaurant's mission aligns with providing not only food but emotional support. “This is not only about offering them... therapy...,” Mendez later explained.
With Trump's rhetoric amplifying fears, communities and organizations are mobilizing. Following the president-elect's announcement, immigrant advocates, legal organizations, and nonprofits are channeling their energy toward legal defenses and resources. Lee Gelernt, of the ACLU, warned, "It's going to be much worse than the first four years." Gelernt and other legal experts prepare for both potential legal battles against Trump’s policies and the harsh realities they could present to families.
While many nonprofits face potential threats to their existence under the mass deportation strategy, California is preparing one of the most comprehensive responses with Governor Gavin Newsom drafting plans for an "Immigrant Support Network." This initiative envisions the establishment of regional hubs throughout the state to link at-risk families with legal guidance and community resources. “The administration continues to collaborate with the Legislature to finalize... funding proposals,” said Theresa Mier, spokesperson for the Governor's office.
Nationwide, there’s also been evidence of growing public support for deportations, especially among Republican voters. Surveys indicate about 40% believe undocumented immigrants should be deported, painting both the societal backdrop and climate of fear surrounding Trump’s administration. This data reinforces the urgency among local officials and advocates to protect vulnerable immigrant populations.
Mendez, who runs La Morada with her family, emphasizes the importance of community resilience. She would express concern during the COVID-19 pandemic when La Morada transitioned to feeding those in need as part of the mutual aid kitchen framework. “At the moment, faced with the hunger on the streets of the South Bronx, we began providing free meals,” she explained, seamlessly integrating care for both physical and emotional needs during distressing times.
The restaurant continues to play host to about 500 free meals daily and dialogues with patrons from various walks of life. Many patrons, like Mamadou from Senegal, have expressed fear due to the hostile language directed at immigrants. “The migrants are somewhat afraid, the things he says about migrants,” he relayed during one of his visits.
On another front, leading legal organizations understand the capacity they are up against. Smaller charities express concern about being targeted and potentially crushed under legal pressures. The fear of audits and lawsuits looms heavy, particularly when proposals, such as HR 9495, could label non-profit organizations as supporters of terrorism for offering assistance. These real concerns echo across the immigrant community, where every whisper about deportation hangs heavily.
Nonetheless, immigrant rights advocates echo sentiments of persistence. Displacement and fear are not new challenges. Many reflect back on how these community gatherings at places like La Morada rose during earlier crises, reminiscent of when Trump initially instituted the travel ban against Muslim-majority countries, inspiring lawyers and advocates to oppose the crackdowns actively. Volunteers once crowded airports to help those detained and prepare for lengthy legal battles.
Looking toward the future, the imperative remains clear for both affected communities and supportive networks. While opposition to Trump's upcoming immigration policies promises to be fierce, advocates are reminded of the need for enduring solidarity and community care—a vantage point shared widely not just within New York City but across the nation.
For restaurants like La Morada, the mission remains unchanged. Mendez concluded, “What am I going to do? I am a cook. I'm going to continue cooking... for those who are hungry, not for those who have money or don't have money.” It is this steadfast resolve and communal spirit, echoing throughout immigrant enclaves, which provides the strength to hold steady amid brewing storms of uncertainty.
