By Okafor Joseph Afam | January 23, 2025

The United States immigration authorities now have the authority to arrest individuals in schools, churches, mosques, and hospitals following a controversial policy reversal under President Donald Trump’s administration. This decision ends a long-standing practice that designated these locations as “sensitive areas” and off-limits for enforcement.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), announced the change in a statement, emphasizing the need to eliminate spaces where individuals could evade arrest.

“Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest. The Trump Administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, and instead trusts them to use common sense,” the statement read.

Nationwide Immigration Crackdown

The new directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman, reinstates the use of expedited removal nationwide. Under this policy, ICE officers can quickly deport undocumented individuals who cannot provide evidence of having resided in the United States for more than two years.

The changes are part of a broader immigration crackdown, which includes executive actions signed by President Trump. These measures suspend the refugee system, block access to digital tools that facilitate entry into the US, and strengthen cooperation between ICE and local governments.

Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, confirmed that nationwide operations to arrest and deport undocumented individuals would begin immediately. “ICE officers across the country will be actively enforcing immigration laws,” Homan stated.

Concerns from Advocacy Groups and Religious Leaders

Advocacy groups and religious leaders have condemned the policy reversal, warning of its potential repercussions on immigrant communities.

The Center for Law and Social Policy expressed concerns that the directive could deter immigrant families from seeking essential services like medical care, disaster relief, and education. The organization also warned of an increased likelihood of children witnessing traumatic encounters with immigration officials.

Religious leaders have also spoken out. During a sermon at an inaugural prayer service, the Episcopal bishop of Washington urged the administration to exercise compassion toward immigrants and vulnerable populations.

“This policy undermines our shared humanity and risks alienating those in desperate need of support,” the bishop said.

A New Era of Immigration Enforcement

The reversal marks a significant shift in US immigration policy, effectively ending more than a decade of protections for sensitive areas. Critics argue that it could lead to fear and instability within immigrant communities, while supporters believe it empowers law enforcement to address undocumented immigration more effectively.

As the policy takes effect, its impact on schools, religious institutions, and hospitals remains to be seen, with many bracing for the social and legal challenges ahead.