In Chicago, many Venezuelan migrants express gratitude for their sanctuary city status as they navigate an uncertain future following recent developments related to Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
Jhon, a 35-year-old who fled Venezuela, shares his optimism despite challenges faced by many in his community.
“We have always been good workers, responsible,” he said. “Most Venezuelan migrants are studying to keep moving forward. I feel grateful to be in Chicago, a Sanctuary City.”
However, this hope turned into fear on April 7, when the Trump administration announced efforts to terminate TPS, a program enabling individuals from crisis-stricken countries to live and work legally in the United States.
Under Secretary Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security argued that allowing Venezuelans to remain in the U.S. was ‘contrary to the national interest,’ leading to plans to remove nearly 350,000 Venezuelans from the program.
The decision was justified by citing the threat posed by gangs like Tren de Aragua, linked to serious crimes including sex trafficking, drug smuggling, and violence.
This harsh stance marks a significant shift from the Biden administration, which had previously recognized Venezuelans’ eligibility for TPS, attributing it to the ‘extraordinary and temporary’ conditions in their home country.
A recent ruling by U.S. District Judge Edward Chen blocked Trump’s attempt to terminate TPS, dismissing national security arguments as discriminatory.
Judge Chen described the reasoning behind the administration’s move as “baseless” and indicative of racial stereotypes.
He emphasized that the government had failed to demonstrate any actual harm in continuing TPS for Venezuelan beneficiaries.
Chen’s 78-page ruling concluded that ending TPS would inflict “irreparable harm” on countless individuals, disrupt families, and cost the U.S. economy billions.
The ruling allows Venezuelans with TPS to maintain their legal status to work until October 2026, providing a much-needed lifeline for people like Jhon.
Currently residing in Chicago with his older brother, Jhon supports himself by working at a grocery store.
“I’m here with the help of God, and I am not afraid of what Trump has been doing because I trust in God,” he said, highlighting his journey from Venezuela’s oppression to a new life in the U.S.
Immigrant advocacy groups have rallied in support of Venezuelan migrants, highlighting their contributions to society and condemning attempts to scapegoat the community during politically charged times.
Alianza Americas, an organization focused on fostering an inclusive environment for immigrant communities, states, “The Venezuelan community in the United States has contributed significantly… and should not be used as a scapegoat for partisan discriminatory moves.”
Pastor Kenneth D. Phelps, who aids immigrants at the Home Away From Home Center in Chicago, voiced concerns about the repercussions of revoking TPS.
Phelps has worked to create a support space for vulnerable migrants, emphasizing the importance of community.
“We just thought it would be nice to give them a little piece of Venezuela or Colombia or Honduras—here in the community—to worship in their own language, cultivate, watch TV, see soccer, have coffee, or cook,” he said.
He fears the worst consequences if TPS is rescinded.
“Loss of legal status means risks of deportation, losing jobs, housing, and worst of all, being separated from families,” he said.
Returning to Venezuela, Phelps notes, is not just a relocation but a life-threatening situation.
As the future remains uncertain, the resilience of migrants like Jhon and the support of organizations committed to their well-being provide a glimmer of hope in difficult times.
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