As debates over immigration policy continue to dominate national headlines, journalists on the ground are turning their attention to stories centered on immigrant communities.
The Institute reached out to Aline Barros, a multimedia journalist focused on immigration, for tips on reporting immigrant-centered stories. Barros covers immigration for Voice of America in Washington, D.C., where she explains changes in U.S. immigration policy and tracks its impact across America.
In mid-March, she was placed on paid administrative leave along with nearly all of her colleagues after President Trump issued the executive order titled “Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy.”
What advice do you have for finding sources within immigrant communities?
Barros: Immigration reporting isn’t something you parachute into. It truly requires building relationships over time.
I’ve found that connecting with local nonprofits, advocacy groups, faith organizations, and attending local meetings is the way to go. Often, these groups serve as bridges to immigrant voices that may otherwise be hard to reach, especially those who are undocumented and understandably fearful.
They don’t know you, but they know the organizations you are reaching out to, and that’s a start.
It’s also important to show up even when there’s no breaking news. Attend community events, listen more than you speak, and be transparent about your intentions. I always say that my best stories are the ones I went to public meetings or community events where people would come and just share what was going on. It was genuine, legit, and often led to a story no one was covering.
How can journalists protect themselves and their sources when covering such a sensitive topic or out in the field at a protest?
Barros: Protection begins with preparation. For personal safety, especially when covering protests or enforcement actions, it’s critical to assess the situation beforehand, wear press credentials, and have a clear plan in case tensions escalate.
I never record without consent in one-on-one or small-group settings, especially when dealing with undocumented individuals. But in public gatherings like protests or enforcement actions, the rules shift. When events are unfolding in plain view and newsworthy, we have a responsibility to document them while still being mindful of those you’re speaking with.
But I make it a point to explain how the information might be used, whether the story is for web, radio, or TV.
In some cases, undocumented immigrants or those at risk of deportation might ask reporters to withhold their last names or blur their faces. In situations like these, I would regularly consult with my editors when dealing with high-risk interviews.
What are some ways journalists can make interviewees comfortable in sharing sensitive information; for example, when sharing details about their immigration status and deportation efforts within their community?
Barros: Empathy and clarity go a long way.
I start by listening and letting people share their story at their own pace. I don’t rush them, and I try to make sure people are comfortable with me. When I’m reporting for TV, the presence of a camera can be intimidating, so my goal is to help them forget it’s there and focus instead on having a genuine conversation with me.
I’m also always upfront about who I am, who I am currently working for, and what the story is about. I explain the reach of publication and where they can find the story. Often, people want to share, not just to be heard, but to help others, but they really want to share their stories.
Why is it important to highlight these stories?
Barros: Because immigration isn’t just a policy issue. Behind every data point, every case, every A-number, there is a person — more often than not — making impossible choices to survive, protect their family, or seek safety.
These personal perspectives and stories remind the audience that immigration is also about humanity.
And in today’s immigration landscape, responsible immigration reporting can challenge misinformation, bring context, give nuance to public discourse, and hold systems accountable. At the end of the day, accurate storytelling can inform and empower communities.
Wow, Savannah, this is so informative! Great reporting.
Great interview and great insights on immigration and journalism!