Caribbean and other immigrant communities across the United States are facing heightened anxiety as Donald Trump pledges to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. His promise to initiate deportations on Day 1 of his presidency has left many concerned, particularly in states like Florida and New York, home to substantial Caribbean immigrant populations.

According to the Migration Policy Institute, two-thirds of Caribbean immigrants in the U.S. resided in Florida and New York between 2015 and 2019, with 41% in Florida and 25% in New York. Miami-Dade County alone is home to approximately 864,800 Caribbean immigrants, making up 20% of the total Caribbean foreign-born population in the U.S.

Trump’s proposed mass deportation initiative faces significant challenges, including logistical hurdles and potential legal battles. Immigration advocates are warning that targeting these communities will disrupt families and diminish trust in public institutions. Murad Awawdeh, president of the New York Immigration Coalition, raised concerns over the potential rollback of policies that prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting arrests at sensitive locations like schools, hospitals, and houses of worship.

“This move will discourage families from sending their children to school or seeking essential services,” Awawdeh said, highlighting the detrimental impact on communities.

Similarly, Natalia Aristizabal, deputy director of Make the Road New York, urged officials to take action to protect immigrants. She called on Governor Kathy Hochul to prioritize protective measures like the New York For All Act. “Everyone deserves to attend church or school without fearing arrest or separation,” she added.

The Department of Homeland Security estimates that about 11 million unauthorized immigrants live in the U.S., many of whom have lived and worked in the country for decades. Advocates argue that Trump’s deportation plans could harm individuals, disrupt local economies, and strain public resources, especially in immigrant-heavy cities like Miami and New York.

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