CNN Brasil reporter, Julia Vargas Jones, brought information directly from the border between the United States and Mexico, in the California region, about the impacts of the new migration policies announced by President Donald Trump.
One of Trump’s first actions was to end a program that allowed immigrants to begin the process of legally entering the country through the CBP One app.
Thousands of immigrants who used the app to schedule their asylum applications now find themselves in a situation of uncertainty.
Situation at the border
On the morning of the first day of the new administration, the reporter observed eight immigrants already in the custody of American immigration authorities, lined up in the part of the border considered US territory.
Non-governmental organizations are present at the site, offering information about immigrants’ rights, as well as water and food.
According to reports from a volunteer, although the practical effects of the new measures may take a while to be realized, an increase in fear and uncertainty among immigrants is already noticeable.
There is concern that the end of legalization programs could lead people to seek more dangerous routes and turn to coyotes to try to enter the US.
Expectations of new measures
There are expectations of new actions in large American cities with significant populations of undocumented immigrants.
Cities like Denver, Chicago and Los Angeles are preparing for possible operations in workplaces like farms and factories.
Some of these cities, known as “sanctuary cities”, are organizing actions to inform immigrants about their rights, even if they do not have documentation.
Uncertainty and fear are predominant feelings among the immigrant population in the United States at this time of political transition.
