Growing up in a strawberry farm on California’s Central Coast, I witnessed my father, a sharecropper, overseeing workers who were often undocumented immigrants. The immigration raids that took place during my childhood left an indelible mark on the families affected.
In recent months, ICE raids have been taking place across Southern California, with federal agents grabbing people from bus stops, private homes, and courthouses – not just from workplaces. While methods have changed, the emotional toll on immigrant families remains unchanged.
According to a study published last month, children of immigrants or mixed-status parents are at risk of suffering serious trauma when their parents are deported. Forced family separations can lead to acute psychological risks, including suicidal ideation, externalizing behavior, and increased alcohol use.
Children living under the threat of deportation also face traumatic experiences. School absenteeism, academic disengagement, and heightened emotional distress are just a few of the consequences.
The impact of immigration raids on families cannot be overstated. As I reflect on my childhood memories, I realize that the fear and desperation were palpable. Even as an adult, the stories of workers who risked their lives to escape INS trucks – hiding in toilets or under raised railroad tracks – still haunt me.
Today, the Trump administration has canceled a $12.3 million grant for sex education in California, citing “radical gender ideology.” This decision will affect thousands of youths in juvenile justice facilities, homeless shelters, foster care group homes, and some schools.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles is testing an unarmed crisis response program, dispatching trained civilians to respond to emergencies without guns. The early results are encouraging, offering specialized care to those in need while allowing LAPD to focus on traditional law enforcement efforts.
As we navigate these complex issues, it’s essential to remember the human impact of immigration raids and policies that affect immigrant families. By sharing their stories and advocating for change, we can work towards creating a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Source: https://www.latimes.com/california/newsletter/2025-08-22/a-lot-has-changed-about-immigration-raids-but-not-their-emotional-toll