Concerns Rise as National Guard Deploys to Memphis Amid Immigration Crackdown

Wed Oct 22 2025 04:15:02 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The deployment of the National Guard in Memphis as part of President Trump's crime-fighting task force raises fears among the Latino community over potential immigration enforcement actions.

President Trump's directive to deploy the National Guard in Memphis, aimed at addressing crime, has sparked anxiety among the local Latino population regarding possible immigration enforcement. While supporters see it as a necessary measure for safety, opponents argue it could lead to racial profiling and exacerbate tensions in the community. Local organizations are educating residents about their rights in the wake of this deployment.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — President Donald Trump's recent order to deploy the National Guard as part of a task force to combat crime in Memphis has raised significant concerns among the Latino community about the implications for immigration enforcement in the area.

Included in the Memphis Safe Task Force is the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This involvement heightens fears that the initiative may lead to increased scrutiny and potential raids targeting undocumented immigrants.

Sandra Pita, a U.S. citizen with Mexican roots, expressed her anxiety, stating, My concern as a Latina is they will be targeting people with brown skin color, Black skin color, even my children who are citizens. This sentiment reflects the unease felt by many in the community.

Mixed Reactions to National Guard Deployment

While some individuals support the deployment of National Guard members as a means to enhance safety in a city plagued by violent crime, opponents decry it as unnecessary federal overreach that could do more harm than good. Tennessee state Senator Brent Taylor argues, This is no occupation. It’s an investment.” Conversely, Memphis Mayor Paul Young and others believe the money would be better spent on addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty.

The extent of the deployment remains uncertain, but Republican Governor Bill Lee indicated that no more than 150 guardsmen would likely be sent to Memphis. However, fears linger as a large number of federal agents may accompany them.

A recent analysis revealed that over 40% of arrests during a comparable operation in Washington were immigration-related, further fueling community concerns.

Local Preparations for Potential Enforcement

Community organizations have ramped up efforts to inform the approximately 10% of Memphis's population that is Hispanic about their rights and best practices if confronted by enforcement officers. Efforts include distributing bilingual cards instructing residents on how to respond during such encounters.

Mauricio Calvo, director of Latino Memphis, noted the complexity of sentiments surrounding the National Guard deployment, suggesting that many individuals do not fully grasp the potential risks of increased racial profiling and deportations. Meanwhile, attorneys in the area are advising immigrants on how to prepare for possible confrontations with authorities.

In a climate of uncertainty, residents are urged to remain vigilant and informed of their rights as the situation develops in Memphis.