A lot of green card holders in the U.S. are feeling uneasy. Their worries stem from a mix of fears about travel, potential deportation, and changes in government policies. For some, like a Colorado business owner, the thought of attending an international conference is now tinged with anxiety. She wonders, “If I go abroad, might I not be allowed back in?”
Others share similar fears. A woman from Cameroon hesitated to fly home for her father’s funeral because of the risks involved. Another, an immigrant of Palestinian descent, canceled travel plans and felt unsafe wearing cultural clothing in public.
Experts highlight that this anxiety is not without basis. LaToya McBean Pompy, an immigration attorney, has seen a growing number of clients express their fears. Many of them, including those with green cards, feel threatened by the current political climate. She notes, “They’ve never been afraid before, but today, they’re afraid.”
Recent statistics show that there are around 12.8 million green card holders in the United States. Many may not realize that actions by the government can affect their status. For example, the recent detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder who protested for a ceasefire in Gaza, has made many reconsider their own safety. David Leopold, another immigration attorney, states that this situation highlights the vulnerability of all non-citizens. He asks, “Who’s next?” indicating a growing anxiety about what actions might trigger deportations and who might be targeted.
In a twist of irony, those who hold green cards can be deported if convicted of certain crimes, even if they don’t face any criminal charges. This harsh reality weighs heavily on immigrants who feel they have worked hard to abide by the law yet still fear being sent away.
In recent interactions, officials have made comments increasing these worries. For instance, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stirred up concerns by stating that green card holders do not have indefinite rights to stay in the country. For many, such remarks invite an unsettling dread about their status and safety. McBean Pompy has labeled this new standard of rhetoric as alarming, especially when many green card holders are genuinely contributing to society.
Personal experiences further emphasize the uncertainty faced by green card holders. Marina Sinden, a Washington state tattoo artist, shared her concerns about crossing back into the U.S. after visiting family in Canada. “I have an entire world here to lose if I’m not allowed to re-enter,” she expressed. Her worries are not unfounded. A report revealed that a Canadian woman was detained at the border for over 12 days, adding to the anxiety surrounding cross-border travel.
Beyond personal narratives, there’s a palpable shift in how green card holders view their futures. Many are now contemplating U.S. citizenship as a safeguard against the looming uncertainties. Charles Kuck, an immigration lawyer, notes a rise in inquiries about citizenship. Surprisingly, though, some clients are hesitant to apply, fearing the backlash they might face under the current administration.
It’s worth mentioning that more than two-thirds of the nearly 13 million green card holders are eligible for U.S. citizenship. Yet, many feel reluctant. Maria, a green card holder and business owner, feels that becoming a citizen is now essential for her family’s safety. Meanwhile, others like Sinden feel alienated and unsure about committing further to a country they feel unwelcome in.
This mix of fear and uncertainty manifests in personal choices, like Sinden choosing to indefinitely tattoo a Canadian symbol on her palm. It underscores the emotional, sometimes tumultuous journey that thousands of legal immigrants are grappling with in today’s political landscape.
As one immigrant poignantly put it, “When I got my green card, I thought everything was going to be okay for me. … Lately, with everything going on, I don’t even know.”
For more insights on the current immigration landscape, visit the Department of Homeland Security.
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