Fear, Rumors, and Resilience in St. Louis’ Immigrant Communities
In recent weeks, fear has spread through immigrant communities across the St. Louis region—despite the city not being named a target for large-scale immigration enforcement. As St. Louis Public Radio reports, unverified rumors of ICE activity have led families to stay home, students to miss school, and small businesses to adapt out of concern for their customers and staff.
These fears intensified after the fatal shootings of poet Renee Nicole Good and ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents in January, sparking protests and renewed anxiety nationwide. In St. Louis, educators, business owners, and community leaders report that misinformation is disrupting daily life and undermining people’s sense of safety.
Ashrei Foundation is the administrative home of the St. Louis Rapid Response Line, which works to verify reports of immigration enforcement and connect families with support when detentions occur. As our Executive Director Sara Ruiz shared with STLPR, the spread of unverified reports makes it harder for volunteers to support families already facing detention, deportation, and family separation—while taking a real emotional toll on those doing the work.
While rumors travel fast, the reality is often far more administrative and far less visible than people expect. Accurate information, community care, and long-term organizing are essential to protecting our neighbors and resisting fear-based harm.
Get Involved
Report responsibly: If you hear about possible immigration enforcement activity, rely on verified sources before sharing. Misinformation can cause real harm.
Support the Rapid Response Line: Ashrei leads volunteers to ensure families impacted by detention or deportation have access to timely, accurate information and support.
Volunteer or donate: Your time and resources help sustain community-led responses rooted in care, dignity, and solidarity.
Stay connected: Follow Ashrei Foundation for updates, trainings, and ways to take action locally.
Together, we can reduce fear, share facts, and stand with our immigrant neighbors.
