Introduction
The day after President Donald Trump’s second inauguration, his administration ended a policy that previously directed immigration agents to avoid entering sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals, and schools. This change has left staff, students, and families at Ypsilanti Community High School (YCHS) feeling anxious.
The Impact on Students
Nearly one-third of YCHS’s 600 students are English Learners, speaking a variety of languages from Spanish to Swahili, and coming from numerous countries around the globe. Principal Chelsea Harris-Hugan expressed concerns, stating, ‘Before the school district’s memo, students and their families were really worried about ICE coming into the school.’ Many felt frightened about the prospect of ICE detaining students during school hours.
Following the release of a memo from YCS Superintendent Alena Zachery-Ross, clarifying that the school would not ask families about their immigration status nor coordinate with ICE, the atmosphere has become slightly more stable. However, there is still substantial fear among students about the safety of their families.
Safety and Anxiety
As Harris-Hugan noted, ‘You can feel the anxiety’ within the classrooms. One student, living with her aunt, expressed her fear that if ICE apprehended her aunt, she would have nowhere to go. Another reported physical symptoms of anxiety when thinking about returning home, praying that her parents would be there.
Mental Health Concerns
In recent months, visits to the school social worker for stress and anxiety have increased, revealing how federal immigration changes are affecting the students’ mental well-being. The school’s food pantry and clothing closet usage have also risen, indicating heightened need. Students are missing classes out of fear, with attendance among English Learners reportedly down since January.
Community Response
Local organizations like the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center (MIRC) are also taking action. Following a series of abrupt policy changes from the Trump administration, MIRC’s managing attorney Rebecca Olszewski described the situation as ‘beyond horrified’, emphasizing the importance of providing legal representation to unaccompanied children. Olszewski stated, ‘We’re a type of protection that makes sure these children are safe.’
Support Services Expansion
Organizations such as Corner Health Center have seen increased demand for services, from food and baby supplies to mental health support. Executive Director Alex Plum explained that they are implementing measures to make services accessible to immigrant youth, including providing translation services and community partnerships.
Conclusion
Amidst these challenges, Harris-Hugan calls for compassion, stating, ‘Look what it’s doing to our students, what it’s doing to families. Have some common decency.’ As the community grapples with these changes, the focus remains on supporting young immigrants and ensuring they feel safe and welcome in their new environment.
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