Since January 2025, with Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, there has been a dramatic increase in deportations of unaccompanied minors.
According to TRAC, immigration judges have issued deportation orders for more than 53,000 minors, of whom about 15,000 are under 4 years old and another 20,000 are between 4 and 11 years old.
ICE and deportations of minors
In February, media outlets such as Reuters confirmed that ICE was instructed to locate and deport unaccompanied minors pending a hearing.
In addition, Axios notes that in several cases, even U.S. citizen children have been deported along with their parents, creating alarm among advocates and Hispanic communities.
Organizations such as Human Rights Watch and The Guardian report how the operations include surprise visits and review of sponsor data, generating fear and psychological trauma among children and families.
Revocation of humanitarian permits
Families in Illinois and other states have begun receiving letters from DHS instructing minors who entered the country legally under humanitarian leave to leave the country immediately.
Otherwise, they would face deportation, fines and criminal prosecution.
Immigration judges have issued deportations orders for over 53,000 minors
QuéOnnda.com
Homes, churches and civic leaders in the sanctuary, such as in Waukegan (Illinois), call this move “horrible” and “never seen before,” denouncing the psychological impact on children.
This change coincides with cuts in funding for legal defense of migrant children.
Although a lawsuit temporarily restored resources, there is still concern about its continuity.
Complaints and community response
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Civil organizations warn about due process violations and state abuse in the deportation of minors.
Testimonies from parents and religious leaders point out that these letters cause trauma and break down protection systems.
Legal reactions: lawsuits have been filed in several states to stop these deportations and protect vulnerable minors.
Why is it relevant to U.S. Hispanics?
Direct impact: families who arrived legally with children may face sudden expulsion.
2. Rights at risk: due process and legal protection of minors are compromised.
3. Community alert: churches, sanctuaries and legal advocates activate networks to protect these children.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
