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Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago has expressed concern over reports of a potential mass deportation plan targeting the Chicago area under the new administration in Washington. "While we wish the new administration success in promoting the common good, the reports being circulated of planned mass deportations targeting the Chicago area are not only profoundly disturbing but also wound us deeply," he stated during remarks at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
In response to these concerns, priests at St. Rita of Cascia Parish in Chicago have shown support for local immigrants by organizing a special Mass and providing pastoral packs containing items like prayer shawls and rosaries. Father Larry Dowling emphasized the importance of supporting those who may face deportation, saying, "It is really important to be present to let people know, we will be there wherever we can to support them."
The new administration led by President Donald Trump ended the use of CBP One, an app that facilitated border crossings for undocumented individuals. The termination of this app has affected nearly one million people who entered the U.S. legally since its introduction.
Church leaders from both Mexico and the U.S., including Cardinal Cupich, have voiced their support for migrants threatened by deportation and called for readiness to receive them. Pope Francis criticized Trump's deportation plan as "a disgrace" during an Italian television interview.
President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has pledged to protect Mexicans living in the U.S. through consulates and welcome back any returned Mexican migrants with "open arms." However, she expressed reluctance about receiving non-Mexican migrants removed from the United States.
The Mexican bishops' conference's human mobility ministry has urged dioceses and parishes to offer generosity toward returning migrants. They highlighted the emotional and financial challenges faced by those separated from their families due to deportation.
The economic impact of remittances sent by Mexican migrants is significant, with $59.5 billion received over 11 months in 2024 alone. This financial support plays a crucial role in sustaining economies across Central America as well.
Father Germán Calix noted that many Hondurans left their country seeking opportunities abroad due to limited prospects at home. He stressed that without improvements in social advancement opportunities within Honduras, migration flows would remain substantial.
As Trump assumed office, migrants continued arriving in Mexico hoping to enter the U.S., despite uncertainties surrounding future immigration policies.
