LOS ANGELES — Millions of undocumented migrants across the U.S. are retreating into the shadows as heightened enforcement measures under former President Donald Trump’s administration intensify fears of detention and deportation. In Los Angeles, community networks are mobilizing to provide safe havens for those affected, supported by legal residents advocating for policy reform.
Reports indicate a growing reliance on underground networks offering temporary shelter, legal aid, and resources to evade detection. Advocates argue the crackdown has created a humanitarian crisis, separating families and discouraging vulnerable populations from accessing essential services.
While federal authorities emphasize border security as a priority, grassroots organizations stress the need for balanced approaches that address both national concerns and human rights. The situation highlights deepening divisions over immigration policy in the U.S., with implications for labor markets, social cohesion, and international perceptions of American governance.
