Lake County Mixed Families Fear Mass Deportations Under New Administration

Lake County: A woman recalls arriving in the U.S. from Mexico at just six years old. She remembers little about the journey, just that it was a family reunion.

She came with her mom and sisters to be with her dad, who was working in the U.S. Now, at 27, she’s a single mom of three kids, all born here. They’re a “mixed family” of citizens and non-citizens.

Another young man, who came to the U.S. at two, has no memory of his arrival. He grew up in Lake County and became the first in his family to earn a college degree. He’s also a “Dreamer” and dreams of being a teacher.

But now, both of them share a common fear. They worry about what might happen if the new president goes through with plans to deport people living here illegally.

The woman expressed her concern, saying, “I don’t know what I would do if I was there and my children were here.” Local leaders are stepping up to help mixed families and undocumented immigrants prepare for potential changes.

Dulce Ortiz, who runs a family resource center, hears a lot of fear from families. She said, “There is a lot of concern about what’s going to happen.” She encourages people to get educated about their rights.

Maria Elena Jonas, another community leader, echoed those worries. She said people are hoping for the best but are very concerned. There are resources available, and it’s crucial for families to know their rights.

Educators are also worried about the impact on children. They fear kids might come home from school to find their parents missing due to ICE arrests. Carolina Fabian, a school board member, stressed the need for families to have a plan in case someone is taken by ICE.

Local officials are making it clear they won’t assist with deportations. State Sen. Adriane Johnson and Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor both stated that local government employees will not get involved.

Rinehart, the state’s attorney, pointed out that Illinois law prohibits local law enforcement from helping ICE. Gov. JB Pritzker has also made it clear that Illinois won’t participate in deportation efforts.

Both Mano a Mano and HACES are running programs to educate people about their rights. Joanna Jaimes, a certified counselor, teaches immigrants what to do if they encounter ICE agents.

She emphasizes the importance of knowing your rights, like remaining silent and not opening the door without a proper order.

After the election, District 60 officials declared their schools as safe havens. They’re hosting presentations to inform families about the deportation situation.

Oscar Dupuy is organizing the Safe Haven Initiative, offering both in-person and online events for those who can’t attend. It’s a chance for families to get informed and ask questions.

Despite the fear, the two “Dreamers” are trying to keep going. The woman hopes her kids will go to college, while the young man is pursuing a career in education.

He’s already working as a paraprofessional and studying for more. They both want to make their lives better, despite the uncertainty ahead.