The High Cost of President Trump’s Mass Deportation Plan

Two weeks after President Trump announced his mass deportation plan, the consequences are already rippling throughout our communities. Families are living in fear, small businesses are struggling, and the sense of security that so many immigrants —regardless of their legal status— have built over decades is being shattered.

As an immigrant from Peru, I have witnessed firsthand the resilience, dedication, and contributions immigrants bring to this country. They are our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. They are business owners, essential workers, and taxpayers. The narrative that mass deportations are necessary to rid our communities of violent criminals and drug cartels is not only misleading—it is deeply harmful. It should be noted that ICE is not only targeting immigrants with criminal records but any immigrant they can find who they can arrest and detain, even those with no criminal records and who have been here for long periods of time and with deep ties within their communities.

The real effect currently of these policies is fear. The vast majority of immigrants, legal and otherwise, are now living in fear. The economic and social damage of these policies is also undeniable. Small businesses, many immigrant-owned, are losing workers and customers, eventually leading to closures and job losses. Families are afraid of being torn apart, leaving children without parents and communities without stability. Mass deportations also erode trust between law enforcement and the people they serve, making our neighborhoods less safe for everyone.

Of course, we must hold those who commit crimes accountable, but targeting law-abiding, long-time residents who contribute to our society is unjust and counterproductive. Instead of fueling fear and division, we should push for real solutions—comprehensive immigration reform that strengthens our workforce, keeps families together, and upholds the values that have long defined America.

Immigrants are not the problem—they are part of the solution. It’s time to move beyond mass deportations and embrace policies that build a stronger, more united future for all.

Herrera, a Peruvian immigrant, a defender of immigrant rights and advocates for equal opportunities in the Garfield community and beyond. His work on the Democratic committee and as a public worker has positively impacted the community, striving for inclusivity and equity in District 35, where over 50% of residents are Hispanic. Currently, he is running for an assembly seat in District 35 under the Democratic Party.