We recognize that visitors often seek comfort at Cup of Jo. However, we’re keeping an eye on the events unfolding in L.A. and spreading nationwide — and we suspect you might be, too — making it vital to discuss. Here’s the situation and ways to contribute…
What’s transpiring in L.A. at this moment?
Since Friday, people in L.A. have been demonstrating against the Trump administration’s recent extensive workplace raids, such as those at Home Depot, where federal agents are searching for undocumented individuals.
Why are certain immigrants undocumented?
The majority of immigrants are in the U.S. legally. Yet, some do not have documentation.
Currently, there are 2.1 million individuals awaiting decisions on their asylum applications. Some were permitted entry into the U.S. for humanitarian or national security reasons or because returning home would pose dangers. Others were legally admitted on temporary tourist, student, or work visas but subsequently overstayed their allotted timeframe.
Particularly, many individuals crossing the border are fleeing gang violence in Central America. “Boys as young as eight are coerced into joining gangs. If they or their parents refuse, they face murder. Young girls are compelled to become the property of gang members and are treated as sex slaves. If they or their families resist, they are murdered. The police are powerless to assist… Parents are fleeing and bringing their children here to save them from rape and murder,” states Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, an immigration attorney in Austin.
What has sparked such anger regarding these new workplace raids in L.A. and across the nation?
Trump has promised to intensify restrictions on immigration, including mass deportations. ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has amplified their daily arrest targets, now apprehending individuals in workplaces, day-labor sites, on public streets, and even during court hearings. In recent months, ICE has deported individuals without due process, detaining them in centers often reported to have abusive and inhumane conditions. ICE has taken individuals off the street without displaying badges and broken car windows without showing warrants. Last month, U.S. Customs and Border Protection also revoked several rules that protected pregnant women, postpartum women, and infants in migration detention facilities.
What is the stance of the L.A. mayor?
“Raiding Home Depots and workplaces, tearing apart parents and children, and sending armored vehicles through our streets isn’t about safety — it’s about instilling fear and panic,” remarked mayor Karen Bass.
Is protesting these raids or any government actions acceptable?
Certainly. A fundamental aspect of living in a democracy, as opposed to an authoritarian regime, is the right of citizens to protest and voice their opinions. “Often, protest is the only means for minority voices to be heard,” writes Stephen Jones, Ph.D., a Harvard academic. “Protest is central to democratic awareness, which is why authoritarian regimes seek to contain, condemn, or suppress it.”
How is Trump addressing the protests in L.A.?
Despite the right to protest, Trump swiftly deployed 4,700 National Guard troops and Marines to the L.A. region — without the authorization of California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, who usually oversees the California National Guard. Officers, donning masks and bulletproof vests, are equipped with pepper spray, rubber bullets, batons, tear gas, and flash-bang grenades.
A video showing an officer shooting a journalist with a rubber bullet.
What has California’s governor stated?
Gavin Newsom characterized President Trump’s military deployment in Los Angeles as a “brazen abuse of power,” asserting that “democracy is under attack right before our eyes…the moment we dreaded has arrived.”
Are the L.A. protests non-violent?
The protests have predominantly remained peaceful; however, some demonstrators have hurled eggs, rocks, or other items at law enforcement and ignited vehicles, including several autonomous Waymo cars. Mayor Karen Bass imposed a curfew on a one-square-mile area of downtown L.A. on Tuesday evening to deter vandalism and looting. She emphasizes that most of the city remains peaceful: “Some images from the protests and the violence create an impression as if this is a citywide crisis, which it is not.”
What about the numerous videos circulating on social media?
As always, it’s crucial to obtain your news from reliable sources. A wave of false images is being strategically spread online by Trump supporters to incite anger towards immigrants and mislead the public about actual events, according to the NYTimes. Darren L. Linvill, a researcher at Clemson University’s Media Forensics Hub, observed that conservatives online were “exaggerating the riots in a performative manner” to portray L.A. as overtaken by “violent, rebellious mobs.”
What about other cities in the U.S.?
Trump has warned that protesters in different locations would face “equal or greater force” than those in Los Angeles.
What actions can we take?
1. Understand your rights, and share this information with others. Here are some useful resources:
* Know Your Rights: Immigrants’ Rights (available in multiple languages)
* Know Your Rights: Protestors’ Rights
* Know Your Rights: Stopped by Police
* “Know Your Rights With ICE” for individuals in NYC
2. Protest. On Saturday, June 14th, “No Kings” demonstrations will be taking place nationwide. You can locate one near you on this map. Additionally, here’s a summary of protestors’ rights.
3. Donate, if you have the means.
The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights offers vital legal services, advocates for immigrant rights, and supports policies aimed at enhancing the lives of immigrants in L.A.
The Central American Resource Center L.A. provides legal services, community education, and advocacy for Central American immigrants and other marginalized groups in Los Angeles.
The Immigrant Defenders Law Center offers free legal assistance to immigrants. They also represent detained individuals and advocate for their release.
We greatly appreciate your attention and your kindness as a community. Please share if you have additional suggestions for ways to assist. Sending all our love, as always, and please stay safe.
P.S. More news updates, and five uplifting items, if you need.
(Photos by Mark Abramson, Philip Cheung, and Alex Welsh for The New York Times.)
**Current Status of Immigration Raids and How to Help**
Immigration raids continue to be a divisive topic in the United States, representing larger discussions about immigration policy and enforcement. As of 2023, the dynamics surrounding immigration raids have shifted, shaped by changes in administrative policies, public sentiment, and legal challenges.
**Current Status of Immigration Raids**
1. **Policy Changes**: The Biden administration has enacted revisions aimed at concentrating immigration enforcement on individuals perceived as threats to national security, public safety, or border integrity. This marks a departure from previous broader enforcement tactics.
2. **Enforcement Focus**: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided guidance prioritizing the removal of individuals with serious criminal histories. Consequently, there has been a reduction in raids targeting undocumented immigrants without criminal records in workplaces and communities.
3. **Legal and Community Resistance**: Legal actions and advocacy endeavors have consistently shaped the execution of immigration raids. Courts have occasionally stepped in to prevent or modify specific enforcement actions, while community groups have intensified their efforts to monitor and record raids.
4. **Data Transparency**: There is a growing demand for enhanced transparency concerning immigration enforcement data. Advocates contend that more comprehensive reporting on raids and apprehensions is essential for ensuring accountability and informing community discussions.
**Ways to Assist**
1. **Legal Support**: Providing legal aid to those impacted by immigration raids is vital. This may involve offering pro bono legal counsel, assisting individuals in understanding their rights, and aiding in the completion of required documents.
2. **Support Networks**: Creating and joining community support networks can facilitate immediate assistance for families affected by raids. This encompasses offering shelter, food, and emotional support.
3. **Know Your Rights Education**: Equipping immigrants with knowledge about their rights during interactions with immigration enforcement can empower them to protect themselves. Workshops and informational resources can be disseminated through community centers and online.
4. **Advocacy and Legislative Change**: Participating in advocacy initiatives aimed at shaping immigration policy can foster long-term transformation. This includes lobbying for legislative reforms, backing candidates who support humane immigration policies, and engaging in public demonstrations.
5. **Monitoring and Reporting**: Community organizations can take part in observing immigration raids and documenting any misconduct or rights violations. This information can be utilized to hold authorities accountable and bolster legal actions.
6. **Support for Affected Children**: Special attention needs to be directed toward children whose parents are detained or deported. Providing educational support, counseling, and stable living conditions can help alleviate the effects on these vulnerable youth.
By remaining informed and actively engaging in efforts to assist those affected by immigration raids, individuals and communities can help foster a more equitable and humane immigration system.
