HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

A living database documenting reported immigration enforcement incidents and their human impact.

Fear of ICE Operations Pushes New York Immigrants to Consider Self-Deportation

Aug 12, 2026 · New York, NY, Honduras, Mexico

Undocumented immigrants in New York City report sharply increased ICE sightings since June, with 59 sightings in July alone, particularly affecting Queens neighborhoods. Community members describe avoiding public spaces, missing medical appointments, and considering self-deportation to escape the climate of fear. Local officials and organizers held a rally in Corona, Queens to distribute know-your-rights materials and whistles in response to the uptick in immigration enforcement activity.

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