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Former First Lady Michelle Obama has openly expressed her anxieties regarding the immigration policies implemented during Donald Trump’s administration. She recently shared that these worries have been keeping her awake at night.
During an appearance on the podcast On Purpose with Jay Shetty, she stated, “Now that we have leadership that is sort of indiscriminately determining who belongs and who doesn’t.” She added that the decisions surrounding deportation are being made without proper legal processes, raising significant concerns for her.
“I worry for people of color all over this country, and I don’t know that we will have the advocates to protect everybody,” she said. Her remarks underscore a fear that has grown amidst the ongoing debates about immigration and policy.
Deepening Fear Among Communities
On the podcast, Obama described the emotional turmoil she experiences when she sees individuals potentially affected by these policies. “I see that when I’m driving around LA. I’m just looking in the faces of folks who could be a victim, and I’m wondering, how are you feeling, how do you feel standing on the bus stop,” she reflected.
She participated in this candid discussion alongside her brother Craig Robinson. Together, they tackled various issues, including race and bias. Notably, Obama drew connections between current deportation efforts and her brother’s experiences with racism as a child.
Expressing Concerns Without Mentioning Trump
While she refrained from directly naming Trump, her remarks about the fear surrounding immigration policies certainly echoed a critique of his administration. She articulated, “In this current climate, for me it’s what’s happening to immigrants,” when discussing recent instances of discrimination based on skin color.
Although Obama acknowledges that her status as a former First Lady protects her from immediate threats, she emphasized that her fears are rooted in broader societal issues.
Reflecting on Personal Safety
“It’s not the fear for myself anymore,” she stated. “I drive around in a four-car motorcade with a police escort. I’m Michelle Obama. I do still worry about my daughters in the world, even though they are somewhat recognizable.” Her reflections reveal a sense of responsibility for the safety of others, especially those without similar privileges.
She continued, expressing deep concern for those living in vulnerable situations, stating, “My fears are for what I know is happening out there in streets all over the city,” as she referenced her hometown of Chicago.
Context of Immigration Policies
Obama’s comments come against the backdrop of significant immigration enforcement changes under the Trump administration. The government has embarked on a large-scale deportation strategy targeting unauthorized immigrants, with reports indicating an increase in deportations since the transition of power.
Reports suggest that more than 100,000 individuals have been deported since Trump assumed office. Furthermore, estimates indicate that around 20 million unauthorized immigrants still reside in the United States, according to statements from border enforcement officials.
A Historical Perspective
It is essential to understand the historical context of these immigration policies. During Barack Obama’s presidential tenure, his administration was noted for its own deportation efforts, especially in the earlier years. Significant numbers of deportations occurred, with former Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano even praising record-breaking immigration enforcement results at that time.
From fiscal years 2009 to 2011, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency deported over 385,000 individuals annually. This number rose to 409,849 in 2012, highlighting the complexities inherent in immigration policy across different administrations.
The Ongoing Debate
As discussions surrounding immigration continue, Obama’s insights reflect a broader narrative about the impact of policy on everyday lives. The fear experienced by communities often drives necessary advocacy and action. Her expression of concern serves as a reminder of the human element that underpins the often politically charged discourse.
In summary, Michelle Obama’s fears for the immigrant community emphasize the enduring impact of immigration policy on society. She calls for awareness and action to protect vulnerable groups from undue hardship, urging everyone to reflect on the implications of current leadership decisions.
Through this dialogue, Michelle Obama not only sheds light on personal emotions but also challenges society to consider its collective responsibility in advocating for justice and equality in the face of fear.
