The fear and anxiety that swelled within the Brazilian population on the Island after masked federal agents raided Martha’s Vineyard last spring is on the rise again, this time following statements from federal immigration officials that they are targeting Massachusetts a second time to deport immigrants. There are also reports that enrollment of new immigrant students on Island is down this school year.
As has been widely reported by the New York Times and the Boston Globe, acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement director Todd Lyons announced “Patriot 2.0” on Saturday, which is expected to last the next several weeks. It’s unclear how many people ICE would attempt to apprehend or whom, nor have there been indications that the Island would be targeted. But it’s having an impact locally.
“People are getting scared again.” said Ricardo Duarte, pastor at Lagoinha Martha’s Vineyard Church, on Tuesday. “Every move [ICE] makes, it’s an emotional roller coaster.”…