In Florida and throughout the United States, many immigrants are living in fear that immigration officials will take them into custody and place them in detention. U.S. immigration law continues to be a hot topic in political, private, public and religious arenas, with people espousing views on both sides of the deportation issue. Some say more crackdowns are needed and immigrants who cross U.S. borders without appropriate documentation should have to return to their countries of origin.
Others understand there are many situations that are not so cut and dried; complex issues and extenuating circumstances create situations where people who are living hard-working, tax-paying, productive lives find themselves facing serious threats for removal. In another state, such situations have caught the attention of local faith leaders in the area. Their responses have been to open their church doors to provide safe shelter to those who are trying to avoid deportation.
One minister of faith said he does not believe sanctuaries are in the best interests of all involved; however, no church should ever turn its back on a person in need, even if that person happens to be an immigrant facing possible deportation. At least five immigrants in that particular state (which happens to be Colorado) are currently pursuing safe havens in temples and churches. Immigration officials typically do not make arrests on holy grounds or other public areas, such as schools or sensitive locations.
Many Florida families may relate to problems involving removal threats and other U.S. immigration law issues. If an immigration official takes a person into custody, it’s best for family members to try to remain as calm as possible. It’s also a good idea to know what resources are available and how to quickly access help when needed.
Source: kdvr.com, “Boulder church latest to welcome immigrants fearing deportation“, Michael Konopasek, Oct. 29, 2017