Federal Immigration Operation Looms Over Charlotte, Activists Mobilize

Sat Nov 15 2025 09:40:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Authorities in Charlotte prepare for a potential federal immigration operation, with local activists and officials working to support vulnerable residents amidst growing concern.

Federal immigration agents are reportedly planning to conduct an enforcement operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, leading to widespread concern among the local community. Activists and officials are urging support for those at risk as the potential operation coincides with longstanding criticisms of federally-led immigration strategies in Democratic-led cities. Local community groups are training volunteers to document any immigration sweeps and inform immigrants of their rights amidst fears of increased federal presence.

Local authorities say federal immigration agents are expected to target Charlotte, North Carolina's largest city, with plans for possible enforcement operations to start over the weekend. Activists, elected officials, and community organizations are monitoring the situation closely, preparing to support vulnerable populations.

Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden has indicated that there may be an operation soon, despite no formal announcement from the federal government. This initiative aligns with the Trump administration's previous strategies of deploying immigration agents to Democrat-run cities, a move that has raised concerns about safety and legality.

Charlotte is diverse, with over 150,000 foreign-born residents, and is governed by a Democratic mayor, which contrasts with the state's Republican-controlled congress. While crime rates have reportedly decreased this year, federal actions have lead to heightened anxiety among immigrants who fear being swept into enforcement actions.

Local Response

Community groups are preparing for potential sweeps, offering training for volunteers to safely document actions and educate immigrants about their rights. Activist state Rep. Jordan Lopez described the federal approach as tantamount to an invasion, while others, such as Mecklenburg County Commissioner Susan Rodriguez-McDowell, are calling for calm and peaceful resistance.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has asserted that they are not involved in federal immigration operations and cannot enforce immigration laws. As concerns over the operation grow, it remains unclear if the National Guard will be involved, despite calls from local Republican lawmakers.

Overall, Charlotte's local community is bracing for the implications of federal immigration enforcement, committing to protect and inform their residents amid uncertainty.