Preparing Social Workers and Immigration Advocates to Protect Immigrants Under a Renewed Trump Administration

Introduction

With Donald Trump’s re-election as the 47th President of the United States, social workers and immigration advocates must prepare for the renewed impact of his administration’s immigration policies. Set to assume office on January 20, 2025, the administration is expected to revive many of the restrictive immigration measures from Trump’s first term, including increased deportation efforts, heightened scrutiny of asylum claims, and tightened restrictions on access to public services for immigrant populations (Pew Research Center, 2020; Institute for the Study of International Migration [ISIM], 2019). During his prior term, Trump’s policies introduced an atmosphere of fear and instability within immigrant communities, leading to family separations, reductions in refugee admissions, and a “zero tolerance” policy that created significant barriers to social services and legal support (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2020).

For social workers, Trump’s policies present complex challenges, particularly in providing support to vulnerable populations within a more restrictive landscape. This article examines strategies social workers and advocates can use to prepare for the challenges ahead. It explores the practical and ethical obstacles posed by mass deportations, the need for trauma-informed and culturally competent care, the importance of legal literacy, and the lessons provided by historical deportation efforts such as Operation Wetback. Drawing on research, case studies, and over two decades of program development experience, this article provides a comprehensive guide for navigating and addressing the anticipated challenges under the new administration.

Key Strategies for Preparing to Protect Immigrants

1. 1. Understanding Policy Changes and Developing Rapid Response Systems.
      As the Trump administration reintroduces its immigration agenda, staying informed and prepared for rapid response will be essential. Policies likely to be reestablished include expanded deportation priorities, increased scrutiny of asylum applications, and enforcement of the public charge rule, which discourages immigrants from using public services by linking benefit use to immigration consequences (Migration Policy Institute, 2019). These policies are expected to create new restrictions and reduce access to essential services, as immigrants and their families may avoid seeking assistance for fear of immigration repercussions (Pew Research Center, 2020).Social workers and advocates can prepare by creating rapid-response networks that include legal service providers, mental health professionals, and community-based organizations (CBOs) that provide vital support. Studies highlight the importance of proactive engagement and regular policy briefings to ensure that social workers remain current on developments that affect their clients (Gonzalez, 2017). Collaboration with legal organizations, advocacy groups, and policy experts will enhance the ability to address these issues swiftly and comprehensively.

1. 1. Building Culturally Competent and Trauma-Informed Care Models.
      With heightened enforcement and deportation threats, immigrant communities face increased stress and trauma. Research emphasizes the importance of culturally competent and trauma-informed approaches to support individuals and families impacted by immigration policies. Trauma-informed care is essential in helping immigrant populations navigate the emotional toll of enforcement policies, including family separation and the constant threat of deportation (Cardoso & Cervantes, 2018). Culturally competent practices help practitioners understand the specific cultural and social contexts of immigrant clients, ensuring services are responsive to each community’s unique needs.This approach is critical, as children and families impacted by restrictive policies often experience significant mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress (Suárez-Orozco & Yoshikawa, 2016). Social workers and advocates trained in trauma-informed care are better equipped to provide the emotional support and guidance needed to promote resilience within immigrant communities. These strategies help mitigate the lasting impacts of trauma and build a foundation of trust, essential for effective service delivery.

1. 1. Enhancing Legal Literacy and Partnerships with Legal Advocates.
      Given the expected policy shifts, it is essential that social workers develop a basic understanding of immigration law to provide accurate information and effective referrals. Building legal literacy within the social work field enables practitioners to offer reliable guidance on critical issues, including deportation risks, asylum eligibility, and documentation requirements. Studies show that legal literacy, combined with partnerships with immigration attorneys and legal aid organizations, strengthens social workers’ capacity to provide holistic support (Yoshikawa & Suárez-Orozco, 2016).Legal literacy initiatives should focus on common challenges faced by immigrants, from understanding asylum qualifications to accessing relief options like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Collaborating with legal advocates ensures that social workers can connect clients with legal resources, bridging service gaps and fostering a sense of security within immigrant communities (Gonzalez, 2017). This dual approach of legal literacy and strategic partnerships is essential for providing the integrated support that immigrant populations require.

1. 1. Strengthening Community-Based Organizations and DOJ Accreditation Efforts.
      Community-based organizations (CBOs) play a critical role in supporting immigrant communities, especially through Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited services that provide accessible legal assistance. As restrictions intensify, CBOs must build capacity to deliver affordable and effective legal services. DOJ accreditation for CBO staff empowers these organizations to provide critical support within immigrant communities, particularly for individuals unable to access traditional legal resources (Center for Migration Studies [CMS], 2021). Social workers and advocates should prioritize the development of DOJ-accredited programs within CBOs, expanding access to immigration legal services. Building organizational capacity enables CBOs to offer a broader range of services, from legal consultations to community outreach programs. This approach ensures immigrants have the resources and support they need to navigate complex legal challenges.

 

1. 1. Creating Resilience-Building Programs for Immigrant Youth and Families.
      The Trump administration’s policies are expected to place additional pressures on immigrant youth and families, who often face economic hardship, discrimination, and fear of family separation. Resilience-building programs play an important role in helping immigrant youth and families adapt to the challenges presented by restrictive policies. Community-based support initiatives that promote peer support, mentorship, and mental health services are crucial for mitigating the impact of immigration policies on youth development and family stability (Suárez-Orozco, Suárez-Orozco, & Todorova, 2010). Such programs foster resilience by providing a safe space for individuals to process their experiences, build coping skills, and access educational resources. As research shows, these efforts contribute to the overall well-being of immigrant youth, enabling them to overcome obstacles related to immigration status and develop a strong sense of identity and community (Gonzales & Chavez, 2012). For social workers, resilience-building programs are essential for supporting long-term integration and stability within immigrant communities.

 

1. Mobilizing Advocacy and Policy Change Initiatives.
   Under a restrictive immigration framework, advocacy becomes a crucial component of the social work and immigrant advocacy mission. Social workers and advocates should mobilize to support policies that protect immigrant rights, emphasizing the importance of family unity, economic integration, and humane treatment of vulnerable populations. Effective advocacy involves building coalitions, engaging with policymakers, and educating the public on the contributions of immigrants to society.The need for advocacy is underscored by historical examples such as Operation Wetback, a large-scale deportation initiative in the 1950s. This program sought to reduce unauthorized immigration but ultimately failed due to logistical challenges and ethical concerns. Operation Wetback illustrates that punitive immigration policies are ineffective in the long term and highlights the importance of policies that respect human rights and address the root causes of migration (Massey & Pren, 2012). By engaging in policy change efforts, social workers can contribute to the development of immigration policies that reflect humane and sustainable solutions.

Conclusion and Directions for Further Research

The re-election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States poses significant challenges for social workers and immigration advocates tasked with protecting immigrant communities. Mass deportation policies, restrictive asylum rules, and reduced access to services threaten the stability and well-being of vulnerable populations, underscoring the need for informed and strategic approaches. This article has outlined critical strategies, including the importance of legal literacy, trauma-informed care, and advocacy, to equip social workers and advocates with the tools they need to support immigrant clients effectively.

Further research should focus on evaluating the long-term impacts of restrictive immigration policies on family stability, mental health, and community cohesion. Additionally, studies examining the effectiveness of resilience-building programs in immigrant communities could offer valuable insights for enhancing social work practice. As advocates and social workers, it is crucial to remain vigilant, informed, and committed to the mission of supporting immigrant communities through evidence-based approaches that prioritize dignity, stability, and integration.

References

• Cardoso, J. B., & Cervantes, W. (2018). The impact of immigration policies on the mental health of undocumented immigrants. American Journal of Community Psychology.
• Center for American Progress. (2017). The economic impacts of removing unauthorized immigrant workers. Retrieved from https://www.americanprogress.org
• Center for Migration Studies of New York (CMS). (2021). Journal on Migration and Human Security. Retrieved from https://cmsny.org/publications/jmhs
• Gonzales, R. G., & Chavez, L. R. (2012). Awakening to a nightmare: Abjectivity and illegality in the lives of undocumented 1.5-generation young adults. Current Anthropology, 53(3), 255-281.
• Gonzalez, L. M. (2017). Immigration enforcement and the social service landscape. Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies.
• Institute for the Study of International Migration (ISIM). (2019). Asylum policy in the U.S.: Recent challenges. Georgetown University.
• Massey, D. S.