We are heartbroken by the disturbing display of force used against so many of our community members this weekend, not to mention the increase in ICE presence and raids that preceded it.
As a reentry organization helping people with conviction histories, we were not surprised by the early rhetoric targeting our community first. It’s the first step in an all-too-familiar playbook to normalize the overuse of force under the guise of “removing criminals.” Sadly, recent events in Los Angeles have shown us how this playbook always unfolds.
We are deeply alarmed by reports of raids on student graduations and various workplaces, targeting children and the people keeping our communities functioning, and the arrest of our friend and partner, David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union California, not to mention the deployment of the National Guard against Governor Newsom’s will.
While these threats are very real and frightening, we are even more strengthened by the resolve of our Los Angeles community, who have come out in enormous numbers to protest peacefully, hold truth to power, and celebrate the heritage and shared dignity of our immigrant communities.
As an organization committed to changing narratives around incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people, we understand the power of storytelling to uplift our common humanity and erase division. We encourage everyone to continue sharing stories of our incredible immigrant communities, who have made this city and country what it is today. We stand by our immigrant community members and will do all we can to keep them safe.
To our members, please reach out if you need support. And for resources on knowing your rights while engaging with ICE, please see our “know your rights” post pinned on our page.
Let’s keep safe, hold our loved ones close, and stand strong together.
