Election Results Have Many Fearful Over Immigration Policies

FRESNO, CA (KMJ) – President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated immigration policies has many fearful.

Many in the US are here illegally whether undocumented or in transitional status, and are worried about being deported.

“There’s a lot of concern right now, when it comes to the recent election but right now we don’t want people in panic, we just have to organize, we’ve got to plan because comprehensive immigration is what’s on the table for us and we’re not going anywhere.” Sam Molina, California Director, Mi Familia Vota.

On Thursday, September 23, Grand Canyon National Park in coordination with The Department of Homeland Security, hosted a naturalization ceremony at the Mather Amphitheatre on the South Rim. This is the first time in history that Grand Canyon National Park has hosted such an event.  Under blue skies and before a breathtaking view, 23 individuals from 12 different countries including, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Australia, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vietnam and Zambia, became naturalized citizens. Many family members and close friends of the candidates came to show their support for this special event. Park employees and visitors also watched on as the candidates stated the Oath of Allegiance, and received their certificates of naturalization.  Deputy Superintendent Palma Wilson welcomed the candidates and their families.  The Presentation of Colors was done by the Air Force ROTC Honor Guard of Northern Arizona University. John M. Ramirez, Acting District Director for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) administered the Oath of Allegiance to America's newest citizens.  A keynote address was given by USCIS Ombudsman January Contreras. Ms. Contreras stated, “Everyday, we welcome new and diverse stories and heritages into the great patchwork of our Nation. United by our devotion to the Constitution and to the civic engagement it inspires, Americans remain committed to the fundamental principles established over two hundred years ago.” This event is part of USCIS’s annual celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. An estimated 9,258 candidates will become citizens at 63 special ceremonies held across the country and around the world from Sept. 13-24. Constitution Day is celebrated on Sept. 17 in remembrance of the signing of the Constitution in 1787. Since 1952, Citizenship Day has been celebrated in conjunction with Constitution Day, although Congress first underscored the signific

The phones are ringing for some Valley immigration lawyers from people worried about their status says Immigration Attorney Olga Grosh

43% of Fresno State’s student population this fall 2016 is Mexican, and some are undocumented. and like others living in the U.S. they are concerned about their benefits.

Yes, financial aid, health resources as well, Obamacare and other such benefits that would affect the immigrant population, but then you also have to look out at the overwhelmingly positive response from the California Legislature who put out a statement saying that California is proud of its diversity and proud to support people from all backgrounds – which is a good sign because they are the lawmakers in the state and it will be good to see how the state lawmakers are able to support the immigrant youth where the federal government make take back some benefits. – Immigration Attorney Olga Grosh

Fresno State is developing informational workshops next week (November 14th) with local immigration attorneys to provide clarification regarding students residence and educational status.

“I am keenly aware of the serious concerns that many of our undocumented students have about their future,” Castro said regarding the Dreamer students. “Fresno State is committed to supporting the success of all of our talented students, including undocumented students. Our students are a critical part of the next generation of leaders in the Valley and beyond.” – Fresno State President Joseph I. Castro.

Click here to listen to a report by KMJ’s Liz Kern: