Rosario, a 35-year-old undocumented Honduran immigrant, anxiously monitors a WhatsApp group for real-time updates on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Washington. She has lived in constant fear since President Donald Trump launched a sweeping campaign to deport millions of undocumented immigrants after returning to the White House in January.
Rosario, who arrived in the U.S. in 2021, rarely leaves her small studio apartment, except for work and essential errands. Her only source of information is the community-run messaging group, which mixes verified reports with unconfirmed rumors about ICE activities. Despite the uncertainty, she finds some comfort in staying informed.
The Trump administration has removed previous restrictions on ICE operations at schools, churches, and hospitals—heightening concerns among immigrant communities. Advocacy groups report a surge in misinformation, with viral videos falsely claiming to show deportations.
Although immigration arrests have increased, deportation flights remain at levels similar to those under President Joe Biden, according to U.S. media reports. However, the government’s high-profile raids and publicized deportations have pushed many undocumented immigrants into hiding, with some even withdrawing their children from school.
Elizabeth, another undocumented immigrant, chooses to rely on her own vigilance rather than social media updates. “Fear is a product of misinformation,” she says, acknowledging the widespread anxiety gripping immigrant communities.