Anxious Migrants Seek Routes to Escape Florida’s Climate of Fear and Uncertainty

HI INDIA NEWS DESK

MIAMI , FL How do undocumented migrants in Florida, who lack valid government identification to drive, fly, or take trains, manage to travel to other states? Immigration advocates report that groups affected by uncertain state immigration policies provide assistance.

According to Thomas Kennedy of the Florida Immigration Coalition, an organization that collaborates with 50 partner organizations to create a welcoming environment for immigrants, migrants are experiencing a level of fear that hasn’t been seen in a decade.

“These are individuals who have often journeyed on foot from Central America, figuring out ways to come here, and trust me, leaving Florida is a last resort,” Kennedy said. “It’s challenging, but if they feel it’s necessary, our community is incredibly resourceful.”

Construction workers we spoke to last week mentioned that some of their peers had left for other states without valid identification.

“Yes, it’s very difficult,” said Maria, an undocumented worker.

The Florida Immigration Coalition connects migrants with resources, Kennedy explained. Sometimes, migrants come across organizations in other states that assist with finding employment and educational opportunities for undocumented immigrants.

While the Florida Immigration Coalition is not directly involved in transportation, Kennedy acknowledged that migrants face significant risks when leaving Florida.

“There are always risks associated with packing up your belongings, uprooting your life, and starting anew,” he said. “As I mentioned before, they are searching for a place that doesn’t want them here in Florida, a place that actively opposes them. At a certain point, why would they stay here? They reach a breaking point and decide to go somewhere else.”

This sentiment arises shortly after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed comprehensive immigration reforms that require certain employers to verify their workers’ citizenship. The governor stated that this measure ensures Florida taxpayers are not burdened with the costs of illegal immigration.