From Immigrant to Advocate: Why We Must Reject Cruelty in Immigration Policy
As an immigrant adopted from Bulgaria at age 8, I’ve experienced firsthand the hope and promise that America can offer. That’s why I’m deeply troubled by immigration policies that trade humanity for fear—policies that separate families, traumatize children, and undermine trust in our communities. In this editorial, I reflect on my journey, the harmful impact of Trump-era immigration tactics, and why local leaders must speak up and push for compassionate, practical reform that protects families and strengthens our communities.
Editorial: As an immigrant adopted from Bulgaria at age 8, I vividly remember wondering what America was all about and feeling curious about learning English. Arriving in Federal Way in 1992 brought a whirlwind of new experiences. One of my most cherished memories is meeting the judges and receiving my certificate of citizenship—a moment that affirmed my place in the promise of hope and inclusion America offers. That’s why Donald Trump’s immigration policies, with their cruelty and lack of humanity, deeply dishearten me.
Under Trump, ICE agents were authorized to detain people in safe havens like churches, schools, and hospitals—places meant for guidance, healing, and education. These policies are heartless and dangerous, undermining trust in vital institutions and fostering fear in our communities. While immigration reform is necessary, causing trauma and division is not the way to achieve it.
What makes these policies even more troubling is their utter disregard for decency and dignity. Targeting individuals in front of their families and communities leaves scars that last a lifetime. The fear and uncertainty these actions create are especially damaging for children. Imagine the trauma of watching a parent forcibly taken away or the constant anxiety of wondering if your family will be next. No child should have to grow up in that kind of environment.
This is not an opportunity for a reality TV moment with Dr. Phil or an attempt to sensationalize people’s pain. It’s a deeply serious issue that demands dignity, respect, and thoughtful leadership. Turning these life-altering policies into media spectacles trivializes the real suffering of families and communities. It’s not entertainment—it’s a crisis of humanity that requires compassion and practical solutions, not disengagement or showmanship.
Beyond the emotional toll, these policies have significant negative economic impacts. Many industries, particularly agriculture and food production, depend heavily on immigrant labor. When immigrants are too afraid to show up for work, the ripple effects are felt across the economy—from unharvested crops to higher grocery prices. If this fear continues to push workers out of critical roles, the strain on families and local economies will only increase. These policies harm not just immigrants but everyone.
Our city, one of the most diverse in the country with residents speaking over 100 languages, should be a model of inclusion. Yet many local leaders remain silent—or worse, supportive—of these harmful policies. Their inaction raises serious questions about their commitment to the people they represent. True leadership requires courage, particularly when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable among us.
This is not how immigration should be handled. Instead of tearing families apart, we need a system that allows immigrants to follow proper processes, imposes reasonable fines for bypassing steps, and integrates them into communities. Such an approach ensures accountability while giving immigrants the opportunity to become productive members of society. It allows families to build stable lives and fully contribute to the communities they call home.
Trauma and fear are not solutions—they are failures of leadership. We must embrace reforms that prioritize compassion and practicality over punishment. Immigrants play vital roles and enrich the cultural fabric of America. Acknowledging their humanity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do.
America’s strength has always come from its diversity and its ability to welcome people from all walks of life. Policies rooted in fear erode that strength and weaken our nation from within. Local leaders must reject destructive tactics and instead advocate for humane, compassionate solutions that reflect shared values and humanity.
Trauma and division should never be the cost of reform. It’s time to uphold dignity, protect families, and create solutions that reflect the best of who we are. The future of countless families—and the heart of our community—depends on it.
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This is an Editorial that Former Councilmember Martin Moore write for the Federal Way Mirror.