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Published on January 24, 2025
Charlotte Community Alarmed as ICE "Sensitive Locations" Policy Revoked, Advocates Urge Protective Measures for StudentsSource: Google Street View

The revocation of the "sensitive location" memorandum by the Trump administration has raised concerns in the Charlotte community. Immigration advocates have reported an increase in calls from concerned parents. The 2011 directive, which prevented U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement from targeting locations such as schools and churches, is no longer being enforced. Cristina Cerón, Co-Director of the Immigrant Justice Program at the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, stated, "Fear is a good word for it, I would say confusion is another one. [Families] want clarity, they want guidance on what to do because they hear they can go into the schools, they can go to court, they can go to these areas," in a statement obtained by the WCNC Charlotte.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) board stated, "The district strictly adheres to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and policies regarding immigration matters," in statement provided to WCNC Charlotte highlighted CMS's commitment to consulting the Office of the General Counsel to adapt to new legislation and support students and staff. Immigration attorney Becca O’Neill pointed out that the change has created a climate of fear, with parents hesitant to send their children to school or engage with educational institutions.

The Charlotte Observer reported, CMS board member Liz Monterrey Duvall is initiating protective measures for undocumented students in wake of President Trump's new immigration orders. Monterrey Duvall, drawing from her own background, stated, "It’s critical that we educate the community about the rights and protections that exist for undocumented students." The CMS board's intergovernmental relations committee is set to discuss incorporating these protections into the board's legislative agenda.

The National Education Association (NEA) is actively encouraging schools to adopt Safe Zones policies. As specified on their guidance on immigration issues, these policies direct educators on the correct course of action should ICE conduct enforcement at schools. The guidance also provides educators with resources to understand and advocate for immigration-related concerns safely. U.S. history shows largest deportation programs posited, and drastic changes such as the potential ending of birthright citizenship.