Immigrant Sentiments Post-Election in the U.S.

In the aftermath of the recent election, a dichotomy of emotions can be observed among U.S. voters. While some feel hopeful, many immigrants, particularly those in immigrant-rich communities across the country, are grappling with a profound sense of fear and uncertainty. Reporter Saul Gonzalez from KCRW Los Angeles expresses the overarching emotions prevalent in these communities by questioning, "How many synonyms are there for fear, anxiety, and rage?" These sentiments underscore the depth of concern regarding the immediate future and the potential implications of government policy on their lives.

The crux of the matter extends beyond abstract discussions of public policy; it is intensely personal for immigrants. As Gonzalez points out, any immigration reform or crackdowns on illegal immigration could have direct and life-altering impacts on their ability to stay in the country. Immigrants recognize that changes in policy could alter their status and capacity to remain within the U.S. borders.

Conversely, there exists a growing urgency among immigrants to make their contributions known to American society. According to Gonzalez, local immigrants assert their vital role in the community, stating, "Listen Americans, you have to understand what we do for this country. Every day we are your nannies, we are your gardeners, your housekeepers." This claim highlights the integral role that immigrant labor, both documented and undocumented, plays in the daily operations of cities like Los Angeles.

California has historically been regarded as an immigrant-friendly state, hosting approximately 2 million undocumented immigrants, with at least half residing in the Los Angeles area. Gonzalez notes that California cities, in particular, have taken numerous steps to support undocumented individuals, such as allowing them to apply for driver’s licenses and establishing the Office of Immigrants Rights in Los Angeles in 2013 to aid immigrants navigating the path toward citizenship.

However, following the recent election, a palpable shift in mood has occurred. There is a growing anxiety surrounding President Trump's proposals, particularly regarding mass deportation. For instance, Jujeño, an undocumented Mexican immigrant who has spent six years in the U.S., expressed his fear, saying, "I think that this country is going to be harder for us to be here. Trump is attacking Latinos a lot, especially Mexicans. We are scared that he’s going to go through with his threats." Such apprehensions reflect a broader consensus among undocumented workers, who anticipate that the new administration will follow through on campaign threats to target undocumented immigrants.

In response to these emerging threats, immigration advocates are uniting to challenge potential anti-immigrant policies. Angelica Salas, director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), elucidates the necessity for advocacy in a reality where President Trump has been elected. Salas emphasizes the importance of approaching their response from a place of love, stating, "We are people who are going to create a more unified America. We are people who are going to fight for our families." This call to action reinforces the community’s resilience and determination to push back against racism and exclusion.

As the community processes the implications of Trump’s victory, leaders and immigration advocates strive to ease the fears instilled in immigrant families. Salas highlights the importance of delivering a positive message to children who may feel devalued by the election results, reminding them they are just as American as any other child, deserving of dignity and respect.

Some advocates, however, remain vigilant and concerned that drastic actions could soon be taken by the new administration. Should Trump sign an executive order to deport undocumented immigrants early in his presidency, Gonzalez indicates that immigration advocates will likely contest such policies in court. Furthermore, they plan to engage in peaceful demonstrations aimed at asserting the rights and voices of undocumented individuals in the U.S., particularly concerning their safety and their pursuit of a normal life.