A 9-year-old child in Hickory, North Carolina, is experiencing a fear that few kids should have to face. When classmates are absent, he notices something unusual.
When he wonders if his private soccer coach, a student from another country, could be taken away, the worry becomes real.
“I usually refrain from engaging in political discussions or sharing my personal views, but the current circumstances are affecting my child,” a parent wrote.
“When my child asks, ‘Why does my skin color make me safe?’ that’s an issue.”
The post quickly drew responses from neighbors and community members, reflecting a shared sense of anxiety.
Lenny Stewart commented, “Agreed.. I’m sorry,” and while Renee Moriarty pointed out, “The kicker is that being in the country illegally is a misdemeanor. And due process is not being enforced.”
Community Expresses Support
Joana Johnson shared her own concerns: “Absolutely! I’ve been carrying around my documents just in case… this isn’t how life should be, just because we may look like we don’t ‘belong’ here.This is a heartbreaking reality we are living in.”
Craig Thieman expressed anger at policy supporters, writing, “Families are being separated today and yesterday in your county and your only comment is illegal immigration is a sin. You’re spreading an anti-Christian message…You’ve betrayed your community.”
Gordon Cappelletty highlighted the everyday precautions many are forced to take: “My adult children, born in Guatemala, are told to always carry their USA passport to prove their citizenship, but I’m not sure that will be enough.”
These personal reactions underscore the human toll of immigration enforcement.
While unauthorized entry is technically a misdemeanor under U.S. law (8 U.S.C. §1325), most enforcement happens through civil removal proceedings, which begin when the Department of Homeland Security files a Notice to Appear in immigration court.
For children like this 9-year-old, policy becomes personal. A coach missing from practice is not a legal case; it is a source of anxiety and confusion.
Parents say this worry is compounded when children start associating safety with skin color or citizenship status.
In this time of fear and uncertainty, many community members are expressing support and solidarity.
They are also sharing experiences and raising awareness of the emotional impact of these policies on families and children.
“This situation is causing unwarranted harm and heartbreak,” the parent concluded.
“While some individuals are in the country illegally, and some may engage in criminal behavior, most are hardworking people. It appears that we’re approaching this issue in an incorrect manner.”
