Policy or Safety? The Traumatic Impact of Immigration Enforcement on Children with Gladis Molina (Episode #153)

Dr. Lynn Hellerstein sits down with Gladis Molina, an advocate for immigrant children and families, to explore the profound and often overlooked impact of immigration enforcement on young lives. In this episode, Gladis breaks down the layered risks families face today—from detention to forced separation. She explains how families are often placed into immigration custody, and how outcomes differ depending on a child’s citizenship status. In many cases, children who are U.S. citizens are left behind when their parents are detained, sometimes entering the child welfare system—creating deep emotional trauma for both parent and child. Gladis shares her own childhood experience growing up during civil unrest in El Salvador, reflecting on the lasting effects of being separated from her mother at a young age. That early trauma continues to shape her work today as she advocates for children navigating similar fears, loss, and uncertainty. The conversation also highlights how fear of enforcement is preventing families from seeking medical care, impacting children’s long-term health and well-being. Gladis emphasizes the urgent need for clear boundaries to protect sensitive spaces like schools and healthcare facilities. Despite these challenges, communities are stepping up—escorting children safely to school, raising awareness, and supporting families in crisis. Gladis discusses her work with the Young Center for Immigrant Children's Rights, including efforts to reunify children with deported parents and ways individuals can get involved. This episode is a powerful call to awareness and action, inviting listeners to reflect on their values, find courage in small acts, and support efforts that protect the safety and dignity of all children. Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Developmental Optometrist, co-owner of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, P.C., award-winning author and international speaker, holds powerful and inspiring conversations with her guests in the areas of health, wellness, education, sports and psychology. They share their inspirational stories of healing and transformation through their vision expansion. Vision Beyond Sight Podcast will help you see with clarity, gain courage and confidence. Welcome to Vision Beyond Sight! Also available on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Audible and Stitcher.