Residents of Woodburn, Oregon, are living in fear after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested at least 35 people in late October. Many are hesitant to leave their homes, buy groceries, or even go to work.
This city, home to Oregon’s largest Hispanic population, has been deeply affected as ICE continues increased operations in the Mid-Willamette Valley.
The Scale of ICE Arrests
Advocates say the October 30 arrests, which mostly involved farmworkers, were the largest immigration action in Oregon since President Trump took office.
- PCUN (Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste) director Reyna Lopez estimated that over 80 people were detained in Woodburn by the end of October.
- Oregon for All reported more than 300 arrests statewide in October, with over 150 more documented in November.
The exact number of people arrested in Woodburn this year is unclear. Additional arrests include:
| Date | Location | Number of People Arrested | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 2025 | En route to work | 4 | Farmworkers |
| Oct 30, 2025 | Woodburn area | 35 | Mostly farmworkers |
| Nov 7, 2025 | Legion Park | 4 | Early morning arrests |
Federal officials have not provided specific details about the operations.
Community Fear and Trauma
Lopez described the situation as devastating. PCUN, which normally focuses on education, outreach, and farmworker support, had to pause some programs and tighten security at meetings, allowing only known guests.
At a Woodburn City Council meeting on Nov. 10, dozens of residents shared their experiences, describing a “political quarantine” in which families avoid public spaces due to ICE presence.
Mayor Frank Lonergan said, “It’s very traumatic for our city. Families have been broken up, and children are afraid to go to school.”
The Woodburn School District reported at least eight children with one parent arrested and another student who lost both parents. Superintendent Juan Larios reassured families that the district would continue to uphold Oregon’s sanctuary laws.
Businesses Face Economic Hardship
Woodburn’s downtown is mostly Latino-owned, and ICE activity has caused a sharp decline in customers:
| Business | Owner | Impact on Business |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Ana Mexican Food | Laura Flores | 80% decline in customers |
| Café La Onda | Andrew Yoshihara | Mostly regulars remain; overall decline |
| Mi Bello Guatemala Market | Alicia Ramirez | Fewer shoppers; financial stress |
Business owners reported empty streets, fewer customers, and increased stress, affecting both their income and emotional wellbeing.
Community Response and Leadership
City leaders are working to support residents:
- Woodburn City Council suspended use of the Flock safety camera system, responding to fears that it could assist ICE operations.
- Councilor Mark Wilk encouraged proactive measures, stating, “We are already the target.”
Lopez emphasized the importance of maintaining community safety, while Mayor Lonergan said, “This could be going on for a long time.”
The recent ICE operations in Woodburn have caused fear, trauma, and economic loss for the city’s Hispanic community. Families are afraid to leave home, children are struggling in school, and local businesses face declining customers.
While community leaders work to protect residents and uphold sanctuary laws, the situation remains stressful and uncertain for everyone affected. Woodburn is a city where people want to feel safe, but increased immigration enforcement has challenged that security.
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