Immigrants Possess a Powerful Weapon: Resilience

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“When we crossed the Darién, we saw everything—dead bodies, dangerous animals—we suffered hunger and thirst. But we are here,” a recently arrived Venezuelan woman told me..

The Trump administration has declared “war” on a community that is an essential part of American values. Immigrants’ work contributes to the nation’s wealth and keeps the economy moving during difficult and complex times.

During the recent wildfires in California, day laborers were among the first to respond, helping with the cleanup. Immigrants are increasingly achieving success in technology, education, and overall productivity.

Many of these immigrants have endured far more harrowing experiences than the “terror” Trump seeks to instill. Some have crossed the deadly Darién jungle, the deserts of Arizona, or shark-infested waters. They have fled civil wars, mass violence, and oppressive governments.

The nearly 50 million immigrants in the United States will not be defeated in the Pyrrhic struggle initiated by Trump. What this struggle will do, however, is inflict deeper wounds and leave the country more divided. It’s clear that President Trump does not care.

Resilience is a crucial factor in how immigrants adapt to new environments, directly impacting their ability to integrate into their host country. Immigrants with higher resilience often experience greater life satisfaction, a stronger sense of community, and increased social participation, while also perceiving less social rejection. This resilience allows them to overcome the challenges of adjusting to a new culture, language, and social system—ultimately leading to more successful integration.

These are difficult times, but without a doubt, the immigrant community will endure. History and lived reality have shaped them into who they are.

Yesterday’s raids in Los Angeles are just a glimpse of what may come.

“When we crossed the Darién, we saw everything—dead bodies, dangerous animals—we suffered hunger and thirst. But we are here,” a recently arrived Venezuelan woman told me.

What immigrants seek is simple: the same goals that brought European settlers to this land—just without the violence and sadism that marked that chapter of American history.