The Trump administration announced that federal immigration authorities can now arrest individuals at sensitive locations, including churches and schools. This policy follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump during his first hours back in office.

A Justice Department (DOJ) memo accompanying the executive order warned of criminal charges against state and local officials who fail to cooperate with federal immigration agents.

“We want to meet with [Trump] and give him the message that he should not tolerate or engage in mass deportation,” said Perla Silva of Make the Road New York, an advocacy group.

While New York City remains a sanctuary city, the DOJ’s announcement has left many migrants and their families fearful about the future, particularly regarding potential arrests at schools and places of worship.

At a town hall meeting in Corona, Queens, Mayor Eric Adams sought to reassure residents. “Children should go to school. Those who need health care should go to hospitals,” Adams said. “Victims of crime should speak to law enforcement agencies. We’ve been clear on this, and we will stand up for all New Yorkers—documented and undocumented.”

Adams emphasized that any federal immigration enforcement should prioritize those committing violent crimes. However, concerns persist within immigrant communities.

On Thursday, President Trump is expected to sign legislation requiring federal authorities to detain undocumented immigrants not only for felony crimes but also for minor offenses.

In New York City alone, there are more than 400,000 undocumented immigrants, many of whom now face heightened uncertainty.

In cities like Bridgeport, Connecticut, community organizations are mobilizing to provide advice and protection for affected individuals. The local school district has issued guidance to families, assuring them that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot enter school premises, buses, or events without prior authorization.

Administrators have been instructed to:

• Secure the premises.
• Meet ICE officers at the entrance and request their credentials.
• Contact the superintendent’s office while gathering as much information as possible.

They have been directed not to physically interfere with ICE operations but to involve district security supervisors and the superintendent.

Meanwhile, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, and San Francisco are among 22 states suing in federal court to block President Trump’s recent order ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants.

As the legal battles and legislative changes unfold, immigrant communities and local governments are bracing for the challenges ahead.