Those paying attention to the news or scrolling social media have seen the disturbing images of immigration agents detaining people on the streets, in courthouses, on school grounds, even in hospitals. Reactions vary widely and often mirror political leanings. Some cheer, believing the law is being enforced. Others are horrified, seeing racism, cruelty, and violations of due process.

This essay won’t change minds already made up, but perhaps it can offer a different, more personal lens shaped by experience, not ideology.

In 2016, I deployed to Afghanistan, then spent three months in Kuwait City, living downtown, an uncommon privilege for a U.S. Army officer. I explored the city, hoping to meet locals, but found Kuwaiti society somewhat closed to outsiders.

Instead, I befriended migrant

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