By: Pat Trevino

Trump delivers on his promise of mass deportation. Are schools and churches safe, or should they prepare for the worst? One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of this immigration issue is its effect on our children and our schools. The thought of ICE agents rounding up children is unbelievably devastating, and what is even worse is that it is now our reality. Being deported doesn’t just affect undocumented children; even students from documented immigrant families worry about being targeted.

I didn’t realize how close to home this really hit until I listened to my grandchildren talk about their concerns for their friends. This constant anxiety disrupts learning, damages trust and leaves lasting trauma.

Last night our family dinner conversation revolved around immigration. My 14-year-old grandson expressed his concern for some of his friends after hearing a teacher mention that ICE was in Victoria and had picked up several students. While this may have been a rumor, it was a teacher who said this, and it cast a shadow of sadness over our table.

My granddaughter who is now in high school recalled a frightening incident from her time in Austin during the Obama Administration, a period marked by record-breaking deportations. Although his approach was less aggressive, the impact was nonetheless felt by many families. She shared the story of a friend who returned home to find an empty house, only to learn later that both parents had been deported. The pain of her young friend’s experience left my granddaughter nearly in tears, remembering how her friend had to live with relatives before ultimately moving to Mexico, despite being an American citizen herself.

As someone who has always advocated for the rights of undocumented Mexican people, I understand and appreciate their value. I recognize them as an indigenous people who because of war and manifest destiny lost claims to their lands.  I’ve marched in Washington D.C. for immigration reform, a goal that seems elusive regardless of which party is in the White House. I have devoted countless hours to helping those caught in this complex web of immigration issues. I recognize the hopes and dreams that drive many to seek a better life here.

When discrimination and prejudice are aimed at the Mexican immigrants, they are also directed at me. I am of Mexican descent, and one cannot be Mexican without first being Native American regardless of being born here in the United States or born in Mexico.  An imaginary line that is our border does not take away from the fact that the American Continent is where God placed the Mexican people. There should be no distinction, and we share a deep-rooted connection to this land. I mention this to assert my rightful place in this country and to highlight the shared history we all have. 

That being said, I find myself pondering a drastic idea: what if undocumented immigrants from Mexico collectively decided to return to Mexico? This is not a call for abandoning dreams but a bold statement about their value. The United States is home to an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants, with a significant portion from Mexico. My message is directed specifically to my “Raza,” the Mexican community which seems to be the main group of undocumented workers who are being targeted by MAGA’s hate. I want good things for them, and it pains me to be a part of history or a country that engages in their removal.

As a mother and grandmother who cares deeply, I sometimes wish that all undocumented Mexican immigrants would return to Mexico. After all isn’t this the advice we would give to our children if we found them in a terrible relationship.  We wouldn’t want them subjected to the hate and abuse. I would tell them to go home and to not return until you are valued.

American people do not value your worth and for them to recognize how important you are to the success of this country you should leave.  You should self-deport!  I truly believe that is the only way for them to understand how vital you are to this country’s fabric.  The undocumented worker needs to step away until Americans recognize what they’ve lost.

Imagine the impact: when labor shortages hit the construction industry and drive housing prices even higher, or when the prices of everyday produce skyrocket due to a lack of workers, people will start to take notice.

The meatpacking plants experiencing shortages will further emphasize your importance; suddenly, your worth will be undeniable. This idea of self-deportation might seem radical, but there may be no better time than now. The Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum is implementing positive changes that could pave the way for a brighter future back home. The goal isn’t to abandon dreams but relocate them and to force a reevaluation of how vital you are to Mexico and to this country.

In conclusion, while the current immigration system is undeniably broken and didn’t happen overnight, the story of undocumented Mexican immigrants is one that deserves to be told. Your value is immeasurable, and perhaps a collective step back could lead to a greater appreciation of your contributions to the United States. It’s time to reclaim your worth and ensure that America recognizes the integral role you play in its success.