WASHINGTON, July 9, 2025 — President Donald Trump’s mass deportation policies are placing immigrant survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in increased danger, according to a new report by the Alliance for Immigrant Survivors.

A recent survey of 170+ service providers revealed:

  • 76% say survivors are scared to contact police due to immigration fears.

  • 50% reported clients refused court or legal help fearing ICE.

  • 80% saw a rise in immigration-related concerns since Trump took office.

“Our clients are paralyzed,” said Hannah Shapiro, supervising attorney for Legal Aid’s DV Immigration Project. “They’re terrified to seek protection.”

A Climate of Fear

Immigrants, including those with legal status, are avoiding hospitals, courtrooms, and shelters. Under Trump, ICE has targeted survivors in public spaces—even entering a domestic violence shelter in Los Angeles last month.

“One survivor had a broken nose and waited two days to seek medical help,” the report found. “She feared deportation.”

Others stay with abusers for fear of losing financial stability or child custody.

“This is not the democracy America has promised,” said Rep. Munira Abdullahi.

Legal Protections Exist—but Fear Overrides Access

Federal laws like the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) provide options like U-visas, T-visas, and self-petitions for legal status.

But many survivors won’t apply. Fingerprint checks and ICE’s removal of “sensitive location” guidance make the process feel too dangerous.

“ICE used to show discretion,” said Cristina Velez of ASISTA. “That’s gone now.”

Hotline Calls Plummet

Esperanza United reports a dramatic drop in domestic violence hotline calls in Minnesota since Trump’s new immigration rules took effect.

“Survivors now ask for Zoom sessions,” said policy director Alexander Delgado. “They’re too afraid to leave home.”

A System That Punishes the Vulnerable

Advocates say Trump’s policies empower abusers, erode trust in public institutions, and endanger families.

“These systems meant to protect,” Delgado added, “are now causing more harm.”

For author: Staff Writer
Courtesy of: Forbes
Source: HuffPost