Donald Trump’s deportation plans are affecting the United States. Some argue they’ll make the country safer, but they’re also making it weaker.

Not all immigrants are criminals. In fact, most are hardworking people who help keep our economy strong. Immigrants contribute approximately $100 billion in taxes every year, paying into a system that often gives little or nothing back in return.

The U.S. is supposed to be a free country, yet immigration policies are targeting families, spreading fear and instability across communities. For many immigrants, these policies feel like an attack, not just on people without documents, but on anyone who looks or sounds different.

If immigrants disappear from the workforce, sectors like labor, agriculture, and construction would suffer. Many immigrants take on these jobs, often with little recognition but a lot of effort.

I acknowledge that not every immigrant comes here with good intentions. Some do bring violence or seek to expand criminal organizations. That is the primary reason given for the deportation plans. But the actions of a few should not define the many. Good people—parents, workers, students—should not be punished for the choices of others.

Many students at this school have immigrant parents. They came to a new country with a new language, little support and big dreams in order for their kids to succeed. They work long hours and make countless sacrifices to help build a better future.

Deportation is tearing those families apart. It is creating fear, dividing communities and weakening our society.

Even worse, there have been reports of American citizens being deported. Take the case of Kilmer Abrego Garcia, a U.S. citizen who was deported to El Salvador. Stories like his suggest that deportation policies aren’t just targeting undocumented immigrants—they’re targeting race and appearance.

This is not what America should be. Deportation, when necessary and lawful, is one thing. But blanket policies that overlook humanity and dignity are another.

We need immigrants. They work hard, contribute to our economy and are part of what makes this country strong.

Here’s a fact: President Obama deported approximately 3 million people during his eight years in office. President Trump deported about 1.5 million in four years. The difference is in the approach. Under Obama, the focus was on people with criminal records and court-ordered deportations. Under Trump, any immigrant, documented or not, is targeted.

Deportation is a serious issue. It’s not just about law. It’s about people. Families. Futures. And that’s why we need to talk about it more.