MassillonLIVE! We take you there! Analysis:

May 13th 2018:

Are Trump's proposed immigration policies bringing fear and anxiety to Massillon's migrant communities?

(Massillon): This is the first in a series of investigative reports about the lives of immigrant families in Western Stark County and how the change in immigration law enforcement affects those families and our community.

It's a community gathering of sorts. On a Friday night; Guatemalan and Hispanic families usually show up at a local food distribution center to get assistance. It's been going on for some time here in Massillon. These families are part of a community of migrant workers that lead a somewhat secluded life on Massillon's south side.

Many of these families work for local companies doing jobs that no one else wants. Most walk to and from work quietly everyday. Are they illegal? That can only be determined by their individual cases.

We are hearing that fear and anxiety are growing throughout these communities because of the changes with immigration law and how those laws are enforced which includes the process for deportation. This fear is coming from migrant families that have no criminal records.

Massillon is not alone when it comes to migrant workers. Many communities across the nation have a demographic of migrant workers that do jobs that others simply don't want. The immigration laws and deportation process that goes with it are being re-written as we speak. How will those changes affect Massillon as a community?

A DOMINO EFFECT?

The Guatemalan and Hispanic Communities bring a cultural diversity to our city. Should we be concerned that such proposed laws will literally erase that culture from a historical heritage that contributes to the foundation of our community? Because of these changes, one day we could wake up and these communities within our city will be gone! Entire families and neighbors removed! That lends to the next question.

WILL LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT BE A PART OF THE DEPORTATION PROCESS?

We're sure many agree that our own Massillon Police Department represent a group of dedicated men and women that are committed to serving and protecting us in a hundred different ways. Frankly,we're lucky! Our officers are a part of the community. Many of us have created personal friendships and have come to know their families.


In talking with Immigration Advocate Al Cerranza, that answer is no. During the below interview Mr. Carranza says that the primary responsibility of immigration law enforcement is in the hands of I.C.E.

There are many questions that need to be asked.How would businesses deal with losing their migrant work force? From the local barber shop to Capitol Hill; immigration has become a hot button topic that has created turmoil across the country. Perhaps we need to remember that it was immigration that built this great nation. We also need to keep in mind that this same immigration could strangle us if we don't find a way to address it properly. A true leader will find a way to do this with respect and compassion for all cultures. 

Below are excerpts from our interview with Mr. Carranza talking with MassillonLIVE's Ed Grier. If you would like additional information, please reach out to the 'Immigrant Worker Project' at 330-454-2220