Aurora Family Faces Fear Amid Immigration Enforcement Concerns

In Aurora, Illinois, a family with undocumented parents is bravely sharing their experiences amid heightened immigration enforcement. Oscar, a 19-year-old U.S. citizen and college student, chose not to attend a recent rally opposing federal immigration policies. Instead, he facilitated an interview with his family to discuss the emotional toll of the government’s actions, particularly regarding the recent “Operation Midway Blitz,” which has intensified fears among local residents.

Oscar’s family includes his mother, who came to the United States from Mexico at age 18, and his three younger siblings, aged 16, 13, and 7. While Oscar enjoys the protections of citizenship, his mother lives under the constant threat of detention or deportation. This anxiety affects the entire family, as they navigate daily life with the understanding that any moment could change their circumstances dramatically.

During the interview, held at their home, Oscar’s mother, with her eldest son translating, expressed a deep concern for her children’s future. She recounted her journey to the U.S. without documentation and the hardships that have followed. Despite her efforts to shield her children from her worries, she admits to sleepless nights wondering what would happen to them if she and their father were no longer around. To alleviate some of this anxiety, they have established guardianship plans that would place the care of the younger siblings in Oscar’s hands should anything happen.

“I worry all the time,” said Oscar, reflecting on the burden his family carries. His younger brother, a high school junior, rated his anxiety level an “eight out of 10.” He strives to focus on his studies while grappling with the fear that his parents may not return home from work. Oscar’s mother works two jobs in a factory and a fast food restaurant, driven by the desire to provide a better life for her children.

The family has adopted precautions to minimize risk, including staying away from unnecessary outings and employing a new surveillance system to monitor their home. Despite their efforts, the constant fear weighs heavily on their minds. Oscar’s girlfriend, who is also a U.S. citizen, shared her own anxieties about their future. Her mother is navigating the citizenship process, which she described as “nerve-wracking,” and expressed concern about the scrutiny that comes with it.

Oscar, currently enrolled in a HVAC training program at Waubonsee Community College, hopes to switch to criminal justice. Inspired by personal tragedy, including the loss of a relative in a police-related incident, he aims to contribute positively to society. He plans to petition for his mother’s citizenship once he turns 21, hoping that the child/parent relationship will expedite the process.

As the family seeks to reclaim a sense of normalcy, they planned a birthday celebration for Oscar, intending to go out for a meal together after the interview. “We are just a hardworking, loving family who wants to do better for the next generation,” Oscar said, capturing the essence of their resilience amid adversity.

This family’s story highlights the profound human impact of immigration policies, reminding us of the personal struggles behind political debates. Their experiences underscore the need for empathy and understanding in discussions surrounding immigration and the rights of families.