A touching letter penned by a young girl in the United States has captured widespread attention on social media. The heartfelt message, in which she bids farewell to her best friend due to fears of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids at schools, has gone viral. Shared on the TikTok account @x0ariix0, the post has garnered over two million likes and 11.6 million views, highlighting the distress experienced by thousands of migrant children and families amid the looming threat of mass deportations.
In her letter, the young girl named Sulmi writes, "If ICE takes me, don't forget me. I'll be in El Salvador. You are my best friend, the brother I never had. I cry every night thinking they will come for me at school." This poignant note has sparked a wave of solidarity and discussion on social media, with many expressing concern over the emotional impact of the immigration policies of Donald Trump's administration on children.
Widespread Fear and Anxiety
ICE raids extend beyond schools, with reports of operations in hospitals, workplaces, and entire communities, amplifying the climate of fear among families with undocumented members. The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, recently stated that individuals become criminals by default when they enter the United States illegally, a remark that has drawn criticism from human rights advocates.
Leavitt clarified that Trump's immigration policy does not differentiate between undocumented migrants with criminal records and those whose only infraction is entering the country unlawfully. "If an individual enters the United States illegally, by definition, they are a criminal and therefore subject to deportation," she asserted.
The Human Cost of Immigration Policies
Trump's pledge to focus on deporting "violent criminals" contrasts sharply with the reality of sweeping raids affecting migrants without criminal histories, including children and families who have resided in the country for years. The situation of Sulmi and her friend exemplifies the human toll of these policies, impacting the emotional stability and well-being of children growing up in constant fear of losing their loved ones.
Understanding the Impact of ICE Raids on Families
What prompted Sulmi to write the letter to her friend?
Sulmi wrote the letter due to her fears of being taken by ICE during school raids, which might separate her from her best friend.
How have ICE raids affected communities beyond schools?
ICE raids have been reported in hospitals, workplaces, and entire communities, increasing anxiety and fear among families with undocumented members.
What criticism has the Trump administration faced regarding its immigration policy?
The administration has faced criticism for not distinguishing between migrants with criminal records and those whose only violation is illegal entry, leading to mass deportations affecting non-violent individuals.