In the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, members of the nonprofit organization La Union Del Pueblo Entero (LUPE) are experiencing heightened immigration enforcement under the current administration. This has led to significant challenges for the community, as many members, including those protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, face detention and deportation.
Impact on LUPE Members
Yenniffer England, a certified nursing assistant and mother of two, is one of the many affected. Despite her DACA status, she spent three months in an immigration detention center and now wears an ankle monitor. Her case highlights the increased collaboration between the Texas Department of Public Safety and federal immigration officials, which has instilled fear among LUPE’s 8,000 members.
LUPE’s president, Tania Chavez Camacho, expressed concerns over the chilling effect this enforcement has on the community. Many members, including U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, are hesitant to participate in the organization’s events due to fear of being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Community and Legislative Response
During a closed-door roundtable with U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, LUPE members shared their experiences, hoping to bring attention to the need for legislative solutions. Senator Padilla acknowledged the broad support for a secure border but emphasized the need for better approaches that do not unfairly impact lawful immigrants like DACA recipients.
LUPE continues to support its members by providing cash assistance to those whose DACA status has lapsed, leaving them unable to work legally. The organization strives to maintain its community engagement despite the challenges, holding rallies, information sessions, and addressing lawmakers to advocate for change.
Chavez Camacho remains hopeful that the stories of LUPE members will resonate with lawmakers and lead to meaningful action. She stressed the importance of elected officials listening to the community’s needs and working towards accountability for immigration enforcement agencies.
Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
