Supporting Our Immigrant Neighbors: A Call to Compassion and Action

As followers of Christ, we are responsible for supporting and uplifting all of God's children, regardless of their legal status in this country. No person is illegal in the eyes of God. A person may be undocumented, having entered the country without proper authorization, or have overstayed their visa. Regardless of how they came to live among us, they remain our neighbors, deserving of dignity, respect, and compassion.

In recent days, the Trump Administration has announced plans to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, with Chicagoland being one of the targeted areas where federal officers are expected to begin enforcement actions as soon as Tuesday. While this action may feel unprecedented in scale, it is crucial to recognize that President Trump is not the first to pursue such sweeping deportation efforts.

During the Obama Administration, deportations reached a historic record, with over 3 million individuals removed from the country. Regardless of the administration behind these policies, they profoundly impact families, communities, and our nation.

The Bible reminds us of our duty to welcome and care for the stranger among us:

"Don't mistreat any foreigners who live in your land. Instead, treat them as well as you treat your own people and love them as much as you love yourself. Remember, you were once foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the Lord your God." – Leviticus 19:33-34 (CEV)

Deportation affects all of us, not just those being removed. I encourage you to read this insightful article, Lessons Learned from When the Obama Administration Deported Millions of People, which explores the broader economic impacts of mass deportations, including potential job losses and disruptions in our agricultural sector that could affect the availability of produce in our stores.

I urge everyone—whether you are an immigrant, undocumented individual, or naturally born citizen—to be informed and prepared. Knowing our rights and staying vigilant is crucial in these uncertain times. Carry a Red Card, which outlines essential rights and steps to take if approached by immigration officers. Understanding our legal protections helps safeguard individuals and empowers us to stand in solidarity with our neighbors.

At Christ Church UCC, we are committed to standing with our immigrant brothers and sisters, ensuring they have access to the support they need. Please visit our Resources for Immigrants page, where you'll find valuable information on legal assistance, community programs, and advocacy organizations ready to help.

Let us extend Christ's love by advocating for justice, showing compassion, and ensuring everyone feels safe and valued in our community.

Check out some immigrant resources:

https://christchurchuccdesplaines.org/pages/comprehensive-resource-guide