U.S. Expats in Mérida Protest Trump Immigration Policies

Mérida, Mexico — U.S. citizens residing in Mérida organized a protest on Paseo de Montejo to denounce the immigration policies of President Donald Trump. The demonstration, coordinated by the group Democrats Abroad, aimed to express opposition to what participants described as authoritarian measures by the U.S. administration.

Protesters Decry "Dictatorial" Actions

Anny Schrader, a representative of Democrats Abroad, criticized Trump’s policies, stating that they disproportionately target individuals from diverse regions. “He is attacking people from practically all five continents who are simply seeking work in the United States,” Schrader said.

The protest coincided with a parade in Washington, D.C., which Schrader characterized as inappropriate for a democratic leader. “Today, there is a parade in Washington that we believe is more fitting for a dictator or a king, not a president,” she remarked.

Accusations of Excessive Force and Discrimination

Demonstrators condemned the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for its use of excessive force, particularly in cities like Los Angeles. They also accused immigration authorities of discriminatory practices.

“He is rejecting people of color while accepting white individuals. This disturbs us because it is a racist act,” Schrader asserted.

Ongoing Advocacy Efforts

The group pledged to continue protesting, urging both Democratic and Republican lawmakers to halt what they described as inhumane immigration measures. The Mérida demonstration was part of a broader movement, with similar protests occurring in other cities hosting U.S. expatriate communities.

The event underscored growing discontent among Americans abroad regarding U.S. immigration enforcement and its perceived racial bias.