A pastor in San Juan, Puerto Rico is helping undocumented immigrants prepare for the threat of immigration raids by role-playing and educating them on their rights after large-scale arrests began on the island. The arrests themselves have angered Puerto Rican officials and civil leaders, as many undocumented immigrants, particularly from the Dominican Republic, have lived in Puerto Rico without fear of arrest for decades. The uncertainty of where those arrested have been taken or if they have been deported is a concern for civil rights organizations.
The arrests have resulted in a silent and empty Dominican community park, impacting businesses and causing fear among the migrant community. Schools with high numbers of Dominican students are seeing high absentee rates due to fear, prompting officials to offer legal aid and assistance to undocumented migrants. The Episcopalian Church has also announced a new program to help migrants with food, legal, psychological, and spiritual support.
Despite the fear and uncertainty, some officials in Puerto Rico are offering support to undocumented migrants, including medical care, legal aid, and assistance with reintegration if necessary. The pastor mentioned in the article has been educating undocumented migrants on their rights and encouraging them to have the necessary documents in order for their children born in Puerto Rico. Overall, efforts are being made to support and protect the undocumented migrant community in Puerto Rico in the face of increased immigration raids.
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