Students in one New Jersey school district may soon receive letters from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) suggesting they return to their county of origin, effectively encouraging immigrant students to self-deport. The notices have caused concern and sparked outrage among local families and advocates,
According to reporting by CBS, the letters are being directed at teenagers. Reportedly, letters extend financial offers or use language perceived as intimidating, a cause for ethics concerns.
Officials from the Camden Center for Law and Social Justice say some letters have already been distributed to kids being held in immigration detention. Within the community, the notices have become known as “Freaky Friday Letters.”
Camden officials are seeking to address confusion among families. Students are encouraged to keep attending school, advising that anyone who receives a letter from ICE consult a trusted adult, advocate or lawyer.
Responding to inquiries from CBS News Philadelphia, ICE denied that it is targeting children inappropriately or without cause. The agency said it offers a voluntary option for unaccompanied children to return to their home countries. Initial outreach will focus on 17-year-olds.
ICE officials noted that financial support for returning home is only provided after an immigration judge approves the request and the individual reaches their country of origin.
Local attorneys and advocates emphasized that the agency is nonetheless contacting minors with these offers. They say the approach represents a shift in policy, as children were previously considered a lower priority for enforcement actions due to their age. However, ICE under the Trump administration has increased efforts to deport immigrants of all ages.
For families and students in Camden, fear is the common feeling. Community groups continue to monitor the rollout of letters closely.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.