New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno: Migrant Community Faces 'Difficult Times'

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno, who is of Mexican descent, has described the current period as "really difficult" for the migrant community in the United States. Moreno, who recently marked six months in office, shared her reflections during the annual conference of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ).

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These are really difficult times. I see it and feel it constantly because of the way some people want to silence others. There are those who seek to intimidate certain communities. And my responsibility as mayor is to do everything in my power to defend and protect them.

Moreno specifically voiced her strong opposition to "Operation Catahoula Crunch," a coordinated series of raids by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records. She recounted engaging with business leaders and religious figures in New Orleans to question the operation's benefits and highlight its negative economic consequences for the city.

"These are really difficult times. I see it and feel it constantly because of the way some people want to silence others. There are those who seek to intimidate certain communities. And my responsibility as mayor is to do everything in my power to defend and protect them," Moreno stated. She believes her background as a Latina and a bilingual individual allows her to connect directly with the community, build trust, and effectively counter misinformation.

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When we were the object of the so-called operation Catahoula Crunch, I met with the business community and religious leaders to tell them: 'Open your eyes. Why would this really be good for anyone?'

Born in Xalapa, Mexico, Moreno moved to Houston, Texas, at age eight. She navigated early challenges in adapting to an English-speaking school system, eventually becoming fluent in both languages with her mother's support. Moreno holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Southern Methodist University and previously interned in Washington D.C. Her ability to communicate in Spanish and English is seen as a key asset in her mayoral role.

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As a Latina and bilingual, I can approach the community and maintain a direct dialogue with them so they understand what is happening. I can intervene and say, 'Wait, this is not true,' 'You can't do this,' or 'Be careful with this,' because I can communicate with them in their language and because they trust me as another Latina woman.