What Child Should Carry Such Fear?
No Child Should Live in Fear of Losing the People Who Love Them Most
I wonder how many more people, including 37‑year‑olds, like Renee and Alex, must be shot during immigration enforcement actions (aka ICE) before we reckon with the human toll? Every raid, detention, or confrontation leaves ripples behind. Children absorb the fear. Their education is disrupted. Families face economic hardship. Even when few individuals are targeted, entire immigrant communities feel the negative impact and disruption.
I did some research ahead of the WBT 107.9FM radio show I was privileged to be a guest on with David Chadwick, and the statistics paint a rather sobering picture. One in four U.S. children, approximately 18 million, live in immigrant families, meaning they have at least one foreign‑born parent. An estimated 25% percent of these children are at daily risk of sudden family separation. Research shows that even indirect contact with immigration enforcement can inflict long‑term psychological and developmental harm on children across all statuses. Unfortunately, this has hit home for those closest to us, even here in Charlotte. Parents detained, and others self deporting, while others live in fear and indecision. No child should leave for school wondering whether the people who kissed them goodbye at the bus stop will be there to welcome them home in the afternoon.
As believers, what are we called to do in moments like this, especially in light of the heartbreaking events in Minneapolis? The Good Book gives us a starting point: “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.” Intercession is a duty. We pray for peace. We pray for families living in constant fear. We pray for young and old caught in this chaos. Finally, we pray for those in positions of authority. And we remember that grace is for everyone, or it is for no one. Every person, regardless of birthplace or legal status, is made in the image of God. We are called to resist hatred, refrain from resentment, and let God alone be the judge. Yet prayer must move our hearts toward action.
Actions speak louder than words. We ought to love our neighbor as ourselves, especially the children who have the most to lose. We can encourage community practices that reduce harm to children. We can also show up with compassion in our own community by listening, comforting, and caring for the least of these. Our LHCC volunteers do an incredible job each week, and our family is forever grateful. May we choose love over fear and remember the innocent children whose futures depend on it.
Brent Morris
Executive Director
January 25, 2026
