Plano is set to hold its annual citizenship workshop on Saturday, offering support to immigrants as concerns about immigration policies continue to rise. The event, scheduled for 2 p.m. at the Plano ISD Sockwell Center, has been a tradition for nearly two decades, taking place every second Saturday in February.
Shaheen Salam, co-chair of the city’s Multi-Cultural Outreach Roundtable, emphasized that the workshop is Plano’s way of supporting its immigrant community. The event is completely free, with Plano ISD donating the venue and local restaurants providing food. Attendees will have access to pro bono attorneys fluent in Spanish, Chinese, and Arabic, as well as information on citizenship and English classes.
Salam hopes the event will encourage more immigrants to take the next step in their journey. “If you become a citizen, so many doors will open for you, and you can do so much for the city and for yourself,” she said.
However, the event comes at a time of uncertainty for many immigrants. North Texas immigration attorney Monica Saenz-Rodriguez noted that fears have intensified following President Donald Trump’s recent executive orders on immigration. “Even U.S. citizens are concerned about their status. Naturalized citizens are worried. We’re just living in a time of fear because of the rhetoric against immigrants,” she explained.
The Trump administration has authorized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to conduct arrests in places like schools, churches, and healthcare facilities. Additionally, a new executive order could revoke birthright citizenship for children of immigrants who are not legal permanent residents. A federal judge in Seattle has temporarily blocked the order, but anxiety remains high.
Karen Kanhai-Snorton, a volunteer coordinator for South Asian American Voter Education Empowerment (SAAVE TX), said that fear is deeply affecting immigrant communities. “I see people carrying their passports with them everywhere,” she said.
Chanda Parbhoo, executive director and founder of SAAVE, reflected on how times have changed. “In 1984, when I became a naturalized citizen, I was told it was illegal for anyone to question my citizenship,” she said. “And now I’m wondering, where have we come since then?”