DETROIT – Residents in cities across the United States, including Detroit, are expressing heightened concern following President Donald Trump’s recent announcements regarding deportation plans aimed at curbing illegal immigration.
These plans have left many on edge, fearing immediate impacts in their communities.
Detroit District 6 Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero recently took to Instagram to voice urgent concerns about alleged immigration enforcement in the city this week.
“I think it’s good that folks know what’s happening right now in Detroit,” Santiago-Romero stated in her video. “I’ve been getting reports that there is ICE, right now, going through our neighborhoods.”
The council member’s video has sparked questions among community members, especially after President Trump’s sweeping executive actions on deportation.
Santiago-Romero mentioned seeing videos of ICE patrols approaching homes, although she noted, “I’ve tried to find them, and they were gone.”
Local 4 News has been unable to verify those videos independently, and the councilwoman has not yet made herself available for an on-camera interview.
In her video, Santiago-Romero highlighted Detroit’s proximity to Canada as a factor in potential ICE activity, stating, “I literally wanted to take the time to let everybody know that, unfortunately, because we are a border state next to Canada, ICE is going to be active in our city.”
This week, Trump acted swiftly on his campaign promise to address immigration, which includes rolling back protections for undocumented immigrants at sensitive locations such as schools, churches, and hospitals.
Reverend Paul Perez of Central United Methodist Church in downtown Detroit has reaffirmed the church’s commitment to providing sanctuary.
“Central United Methodist Church is going to be committed to being a sanctuary for all,” Rev. Perez said.
Over the past eight years, the church has sheltered about four families seeking asylum and is determined to continue this work.
”The change in the sensitive location policy, that would include churches and schools and hospitals and other public events, is disturbing,” Rev. Perez explained. “Frankly, personally, I find it cruel and inhumane. It’s going to really strike fear into our communities and traumatize another generation.”
As the situation develops, community leaders and organizations in Detroit prepare to support those affected by potential immigration enforcement actions.
Immigration advocates are urging undocumented residents to know their rights, stay informed, and connect with local resources.