Waukegan Family Self-Deports: Immigration Concerns
A Waukegan family has chosen to self-deport to Mexico, driven by escalating immigration concerns adn the fear of increased enforcement. After 27 years in the U.S., these parents, lacking legal status, prioritize their children’s safety, necessitating a life-altering move affecting their U.S. citizen children. They cite stricter immigration policies and economic pressures driving their arduous decision to leave their home and community. The family hopes to find security and better opportunities in Mexico,with assistance from United Giving hope,a local nonprofit offering safe passport submission support. As they prepare for a new chapter, leaving friends and familiarity behind, News Directory 3 is following this developing story with empathy and precision. Discover what’s next for this Illinois family as they navigate a new beginning.
Waukegan Family Self-Deports to Mexico Amid Immigration Enforcement Fears
Updated June 10, 2025
An Illinois family is leaving their suburban Waukegan home for Mexico, citing increased immigration enforcement and economic pressures.The parents, who have lived in the U.S.without legal status for 27 years, fear for their safety and their children’s future.Their two children, both U.S.citizens,will move with them,leaving behind their friends and school.
The mother said stricter immigration policies and dwindling job opportunities prompted the difficult decision. “We’ve been here for 27 years,” she said. “This is all we know. But now, it’s no longer safe. Not for us. Not for our kids.”
The children are saying goodbye to their friends and the only home they’ve ever known. One child said, “I don’t want to go away. My friends are here. I’ve known them since I was little.”
The family is now navigating the process of obtaining passports for their children.United Giving Hope, a local nonprofit, is assisting them.
“They’re not really making a choice. They’re cornered,” Pastor Julie Contreras said. “They’re afraid to even walk into a federal building. That’s why they’re coming here first.”
United Giving Hope has established a system to help families request passports safely, avoiding potential exposure to immigration authorities. “We’ve built a system to guide them,” Contreras said. “We check their documents,and help them move through the process safely.”
The family is currently seeking affordable housing in Mexico, near relatives who can support them. The move is expected to happen before the new school year begins.
“It’s not like we want to go.But at least we won’t be afraid every time someone knocks on the door,” one of the children said.
What’s next
The family plans to settle in Mexico before the school year starts, hoping for a more secure future away from the constant fear of deportation and seeking economic stability.