Story perspectives

Trump's Policy Shift Fuels Fear Among Immigrant Families

4/16/2026

Center

Trump Eases Immigration Protections

U.S. President Donald Trump rescinded protections for sensitive locations, enabling ICE to operate near schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
The policy shift has increased fear among immigrant families and coincided with a rise in student absenteeism.
Since January 2025, at least 13 incidents of ICE presence on school grounds have been documented.
A survey found 10% of immigrant families avoided sending their children to school due to enforcement concerns.

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Local Police Enforce Immigration

In Pennsylvania, 78 local police departments collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since late 2025.
The expansion comes through the 287(g) program, allowing local officers to enforce federal immigration laws.
Critics say the policy undermines trust and safety because immigrants may fear reporting crimes.
In Camden County, officials voted to bar ICE from county property, signaling Democratic-led resistance.

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Trump Eases Immigration Protections

U.S. President Donald Trump rescinded protections for sensitive locations, enabling ICE to operate near schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
The policy shift has increased fear among immigrant families and coincided with a rise in student absenteeism.
Since January 2025, at least 13 incidents of ICE presence on school grounds have been documented.
A survey found 10% of immigrant families avoided sending their children to school due to enforcement concerns.

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