If you have access to the internet, you’ve probably come across countless stories about people being detained or taken away by ICE agents. Many of these arrests have turned violent, and in some cases, those targeted weren’t even undocumented immigrants. With the situation in America becoming increasingly unstable and tense, more and more people of color are feeling anxious and afraid to step outside their homes. One teenager from Hillsboro, Oregon, recently decided to speak out about this fear. During a city council meeting, the 16-year-old shared his personal experience and the growing sense of fear within his community. He described how things had worsened ever since Trump became president for the second time, and how the atmosphere in his neighborhood had shifted.
“I’m afraid for my parents to leave the house. They treat us like dogs because of the color of our skin,” the teen said during his heart-wrenching speech at the city council meeting. He explained that he often worries he might never get the chance to say goodbye to his parents if they were to be taken by ICE agents while on their way to work. His parents, he said, came to America with the hope of building a better future for their children, but instead they now live in constant fear.
He criticized the administration’s harsh policies, calling Trump someone who behaves like a child and makes dangerous decisions driven by prejudice. The Hillsboro teen also spoke about the role of law enforcement, saying that local police have done little to help communities of color feel safe. He described how ICE agents often wear masks and refuse to show identification when approaching their targets, which only adds to the fear and confusion.
As he continued speaking, the Hillsboro young man began to cry. He said the constant stream of news about people being taken from the streets has left him anxious and unable to concentrate on his schoolwork. “I shouldn’t be scared,” he said, “I should be focusing on school.”
After his emotional testimony was shared online, many internet users expressed sympathy and outrage. Some agreed that the situation had gone too far and that the actions of ICE needed to be reined in. Others warned that the country was sliding toward authoritarianism. “The U.S. Holocaust Museum displays a sign listing the 12 early warning signs of fascism,” one commenter wrote. “The Trump administration has hit every single one.”
Another user echoed the teen’s concerns, saying, “When he says we’re being judged by the color of our skin, he’s absolutely right. It’s policy now. The Supreme Court just made it clear that law enforcement can stop and detain anyone who appears Hispanic. Knowing this regime, they’ll use it to target anyone they want.”
