As an immigrant adopted from Bulgaria at age 8, I vividly remember wondering what America was all about and feeling curious about learning English. Arriving in Federal Way in 1992 brought so many new experiences as an immigrant. One of my most cherished memories is meeting with the judges and receiving my certificate of citizenship, a moment that affirmed my place in the promise of hope and inclusion that America offers.
That’s why President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, particularly their cruelty and lack of humanity, deeply dishearten me.
Under Trump, ICE agents were authorized to detain people in safe havens like churches, schools and hospitals — places meant for guidance, healing and education. These policies are heartless and dangerous, undermining trust in vital institutions and fostering fear in our communities. While immigration reform is necessary, causing trauma and division isn’t the right way to achieve it.
What makes these policies even more troubling is their lack of decency and dignity. Targeting individuals in front of their families and communities inflicts scars that last a lifetime. The fear and uncertainty these actions create are especially damaging for children. Imagine the trauma of witnessing a parent forcibly taken away, or the constant anxiety of wondering if your family will be next. No child should grow up in that kind of environment.
Beyond the emotional toll, these policies have caused negative economic impacts. Many industries, particularly agriculture and food production, depend heavily on immigrant labor. When immigrants are too afraid to show up for work, ripple effects are felt across the economy — from unharvested crops to higher grocery prices. If this fear continues to push workers out of critical roles, the strain on families will only increase. These policies don’t just harm immigrants. They harm everyone.
Our city, one of the most diverse in the country with residents speaking over 100 languages, should be a model of inclusion. Yet many local leaders remain silent — or even supportive — of these harmful policies. Their inaction raises serious questions about their commitment to the people they represent. Leadership requires courage, particularly in protecting the most vulnerable.
This is not how immigration should be handled. Instead of tearing families apart, we need a system that allows immigrants to go through proper processes, imposes reasonable fines for bypassing steps, and integrates them into communities. Such an approach ensures accountability while giving immigrants the chance to become productive members of society. It allows families to build stable lives and contribute fully to the communities they call home.
Trauma and fear are not solutions — they are failures of leadership. We must embrace reforms that prioritize compassion and practicality over punishment. Immigrants bring vital roles and enrich America’s cultural fabric. Acknowledging their humanity isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s the smart thing to do.
America’s strength comes from its diversity and ability to welcome people. Policies rooted in fear erode that strength. Local leaders must reject destructive tactics and advocate for humane, compassionate solutions that reflect shared values.
Trauma and division should never be the cost of reform. It’s time to uphold dignity, protect families, and create solutions that reflect the best of who we are. The future of countless families — and our community’s heart — depends on it.
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Martin Moore is a Federal Way resident and a former member of the Federal Way City Council.