MIAMI – The effects of President Donald Trump’s zero-tolerance immigration policy remain visceral, with over 5,000 families separated at the U.S.-Mexico border during his first term.
As border crossings hit a record low, a surge in internal immigration enforcement is further fracturing families. Federal and local authorities are detaining tens of thousands of asylum seekers and migrants, often in precarious conditions as they await their fate.
The stark contrast to during Trump's first term is underscored by stories from families torn apart. For instance, Antonio Laverde was arrested before being deported back to Venezuela, leaving behind his wife Jakelin Pasedo and their children who sob as they plead for their father’s return.
A Family Divided Between Florida and Venezuela
Laverde’s family journey illustrates the harsh reality many immigrants face. Arriving in the U.S. seeking a better life, Laverde supported his family through various jobs until a mistaken identity arrest shattered their hopes.
Amavilia, another immigrant, recounts her husband's detention and deportation back to Guatemala, deeply affecting their young family. Alone, she juggles work and caregiving, driven by the need to survive in a country that has become increasingly oppressive towards migrant families.
Individual Stories of Pain and Resilience
These narratives reveal a broader crisis as families navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. From Yaoska, who fears for her husband’s safety in Nicaragua, to Edgar’s heartbreaking separation, the impact of rigid enforcement policies resonates as they struggle to retain hope amidst trauma.
Ultimately, the intersection of policy and personal stories underscores the urgent need for reform in a system that too often prizes enforcement over humanitarian concerns.
