In Salinas, California, often referred to as the "salad bowl of the world" due to its agricultural significance, a climate of fear persists among immigrant communities. With over a third of the population being foreign-born and largely Latino, anxieties about potential ICE raids have led to decreased school attendance, dropping from 95% to just over 91%. Community structures are mobilizing to support students, such as volunteers walking them home. The situation underscores the negative impact of immigration policies on well-established immigrant populations.
"This is an immigrant city, and just the threat is enough to scare people," said Mary Duan, spokesperson for Salinas City Elementary School District. "The specter of deportation is driving people underground."
In August, about 95% of the district's 8,200 students showed up for class every day, but by mid-January the number had dropped to just over 91%, according to district data.
The threat of ICE raids looms over Salinas, where over a third of the population are immigrants, creating a pervasive atmosphere of fear in the community.
Salinas, known as 'the salad bowl of the world', plays a crucial role in agriculture but is facing profound challenges due to the current immigration climate.
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