New Mexico
Local leaders prepare for potential immigration crackdowns
Hospitals, schools, and churches were once considered safe spaces for immigrants. Now, they’re being put to the test.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Hospitals, schools, and churches were once considered safe spaces for immigrants. Now, they’re being put to the test.
On Tuesday, the Trump administration announced it’s rolling back a policy which prevented ICE agents from arresting migrants in those locations. A statement from a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security states, “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest.”
It’s prompted New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez to send out guidelines for community leaders Wednesday, breaking down rights and responsibilities with immigration laws.
“We’re scared for our clients, scared for our communities not only for the direct impacts these executive orders are having but also the fear that it is causing in communities throughout New Mexico,” said Sophia Genovese, a managing attorney at NM Immigrant Law Center.
She and her colleagues began preparing for Trump’s sweeping immigration reform well before he took office. They put together a digital toolkit packed with “know your rights” resources and guides in several languages.
Genovese said their phones have been ringing off the hook since Trump took office.
“People want more information about what they can do if their loved ones are detained, what they can do to apply for lawful status, people want to know what their rights are and what their resources are,” said Genovese.
UNM Hospital’s CEO sent out a memo to employees reaffirming dedication to quality care for all patients.
From hospital rooms to classrooms, Albuquerque Public Schools posted its policies to protect students’ rights on its website Thursday. The Santa Fe Public School Board also voted to reaffirm schools as safe havens last week.