Salem, OR – On a Sunday in late January, St. Joseph Catholic Church in Salem buzzed with energy as hundreds of Latino immigrants gathered for Spanish Mass. The pews were filled to capacity, with many attendees standing along the aisles and in the back, reflecting both a deep sense of community and the resilience that characterizes this vibrant group. The sounds of hymns and prayers echoed through the church, providing a moment of solace for families who face uncertainty in an ever-shifting political landscape.
For the Latino immigrants who call Salem home, navigating the present has never been easy. With the Trump administration’s policies still casting a long shadow, many in the community are grappling with the fear of potential changes that could impact their lives, from increased deportations to stricter immigration controls. Despite these challenges, the sense of togetherness in Salem’s Latino community is undeniable, especially in places like the bustling La Pulga Original flea market on Northeast Fairgrounds Road.
At the market, vendors set up colorful stalls filled with everything from fresh produce to homemade tamales, and the scent of charcoal-grilled chicken filled the air. Shoppers moved through the maze of goods, exchanging not just money but stories, laughs, and advice. This vibrant marketplace has become more than just a place for buying and selling; it’s a hub where people come together to support one another, to share news, and to offer comfort in times of uncertainty.
Local organizers and community leaders have worked tirelessly to provide resources and build networks of support for immigrants in the area. Legal aid clinics, language classes, and workshops on workers’ rights are just some of the many initiatives that have popped up, designed to empower Latino families. These efforts have been crucial in ensuring that immigrants are not left to navigate the complex web of immigration law and policy on their own.
But despite their best efforts, the threat of deportation and the ever-changing political environment have left many feeling vulnerable. Conversations at the flea market often revolve around the latest news on immigration policy, with many residents fearful of what may come next. Yet, even in the face of such uncertainty, the Latino community in Salem has found ways to endure.
“We know that we are not alone,” said Maria González, a longtime resident and volunteer at the church. “We have each other, and that gives us strength. No matter what happens with the government, we will continue to fight for our families, for our rights, and for the future.”
For many in Salem’s Latino community, resilience is not just a response to fear but a fundamental part of their identity. It’s in the way they gather for Mass, in the support they offer one another at the market, and in their collective commitment to persevere. Though the uncertainty surrounding immigration policy may be daunting, the strength of this community remains unshaken, and their ties to one another only grow stronger with each passing day.
