Many immigrants in the United States are opting to self-deport rather than risk being forcibly removed under President Trump's intensified deportation policies. Celeste, who traveled from Peru two decades ago, has decided to return to her home country after years of living in Los Angeles. She overstayed her tourist visa and worked in cleaning jobs while hoping for legal status. However, the lack of reforms and recent deportation efforts have left her feeling vulnerable.

According to the Los Angeles Times, President Trump, in his second term, has promised the largest deportation effort in U.S. history, targeting all undocumented immigrants. The administration has launched campaigns urging immigrants to leave voluntarily and has introduced the CBP Home app for immigrants to notify the government of their intent to leave.

The administration's approach has instilled fear in immigrant communities. Images of shackled migrants and the termination of temporary legal statuses have further pressured immigrants to consider self-deportation. Luz Gallegos, executive director of TODEC Legal Center, mentioned that many immigrants are now asking logistical questions about leaving the U.S. voluntarily.

PBS NewsHour reports that even immigrants with legal status or no criminal history are being detained and deported. This has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, leading many to leave the country on their own terms rather than face the possibility of being forcibly removed.

The administration's strategy aims to reduce the estimated 11 million unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. However, experts argue that significant changes and resources are needed to achieve such a goal. As the situation unfolds, many immigrants are making the difficult decision to leave the lives they have built in the U.S.

Bill Handel