CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The city of Charlotte, North Carolina, is bracing for possible immigration enforcement operations by federal agents, potentially starting as soon as this weekend, according to local authorities. Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden shared that officials from the Department of Homeland Security provided this information, but details about the operations remain under wraps.
As anticipation builds, local activists, faith leaders, and city officials are working proactively to prepare the immigrant community. Training sessions and support networks are being organized to provide information on rights and available resources. A conference call held by CharlotteEAST attracted nearly 500 participants who gathered to discuss how to create a mutual aid network.
City Councilmember-Elect JD Mazuera Arias emphasized the importance of raising awareness regarding local resources available to immigrants, effectively bridging the gap between those needing support and those offering it.
Greg Asciutto, the executive director of CharlotteEAST, encouraged the community to be informed and ready to assist those in need, stating, Let’s get as many people as possible aware of the helpers and who the people are that are doing the work that individuals can plug into, either as volunteers to donate to or those who are in need of support can turn to.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has made it clear that they do not participate in federal immigration enforcement nor do they assist in federal operations. Local officials have reiterated their commitment to supporting the more than 150,000 foreign-born residents who enrich the community's economy and culture.
As fears escalate with reports of potential plainclothes officers in neighborhoods, local activists are providing training on how to identify legitimate immigration enforcement agents and the rights residents have in such interactions.
The situation in Charlotte reflects a growing nationwide concern among immigrant communities amid heightened federal enforcement operations, leading to mixed feelings of anxiety and resilience among locals who stand together in solidarity to ensure no one feels isolated or fearful in their own community.
