Essential Points:
- Immigration enforcement actions by the Trump administration in Los Angeles instill deep fear within immigrant populations.
- Families are going missing, leading to a destabilization of communities due to an unprecedented enforcement surge.
- California’s immigrant populations are serving as a testing ground for strategies that may affect the entire nation.
LOS ANGELES, CA – Referring to the Trump administration’s recent immigration enforcement in Los Angeles as “a campaign of terror,” Martha Arevalo, executive director of CARECEN-LA, expressed concern over the alarming militarized enforcement, racial profiling, and violation of rights facing immigrant communities.
In an interview with the Davis Vanguard, Arevalo articulated the prevailing climate of fear, where families vanish, communities are disrupted, and constitutional safeguards are neglected, all part of a calculated intimidation effort.
She highlighted the gravity of the situation: “Absolutely, our world feels flipped upside down; the changes are daily. Historically, the immigrant population has been targeted to help right-wing individuals gain political power. But recently, we’ve reached an unprecedented level of intimidation—a campaign of terror laden with fear, militarization, and violence in our neighborhoods.”
Arevalo added that the level of aggression and neglect for lawful processes is startling. “It’s unprecedented when a federal government targets its own citizens using military-grade equipment in our communities.”
She cautioned that what is occurring in Los Angeles could signal larger national implications. “It’s a critical moment everyone in the country should heed, not just Los Angeles, as this could set a precedent for how constitutional and human rights are undermined nationwide.”
She illustrated that individuals are being seized from the streets without justification or legal process. “It is purely racial profiling… individuals merely buying groceries, going to Home Depot, or simply walking in their neighborhoods are being targeted simply because they appear Latino or potentially undocumented.”
Arevalo indicated that many detained individuals are often left without legal assistance or knowledge of their situation. “Families are left in the dark… witnessing the devastation of their lives.”
Even those with legal status or U.S. citizenship face detention. “For instance, there’s a TPS holder from El Salvador who has lived here for nearly 30 years. He held TPS for 24 years, allowing him to legally work and reside in the U.S. He was detained while shopping at Home Depot for construction supplies.”
She recounted how officers handcuffed the man without any explanation despite his presenting legal documentation. “He repeatedly stated, ‘I have my TPS permit,’ pointing to it, but it made no difference.”
While in transport, the man implored the officers, “I’m legally here. Why won’t you listen to me? Just check! But the officer replied, ‘We’re just doing our job.’ To which he said, ‘Your job shouldn’t involve breaking the law or harming others.’”
Though he was released after three days, the experience left lasting trauma. “He has a family and young U.S. citizen children. Just the idea that he might be separated from them… and possibly never see them again.”
Another incident involved a young U.S. citizen. “He was on his way to work and stopped at a traffic light when an officer rushed his vehicle, yanked him out with no questions, handcuffed him, and took him into custody. He ended up at the B-18 Detention Center, sleeping on the floor.”
He was held for four or five days. “He expressed, ‘I’ve never been involved in these matters. I’m not political. This isn’t fair. I’m a citizen.’”
Arevalo emphasized that such actions breach fundamental democratic principles. “Our nation claims to be built on democracy and upholding constitutional and human rights. We criticize other countries for their failures, yet here we are, experiencing a crisis where constitutional compliance is absent.”
She remarked that immigration status is complex, and many apprehended have legal rights. “Individuals with Temporary Protected Status or DACA, as well as lawful permanent residents and naturalized citizens, are all being detained… as they’re not being specifically targeted. No warrants or questions; they’re simply taken into custody.”
As she stated, “They will sort it out later. Who cares about legal rights or constitutional protections?”
Despite the prevailing fear and distress, CARECEN-LA continues to combat these injustices. “We persist in our mission, having protected individuals for 42 years,” said Arevalo. “We strive to safeguard human, constitutional, and legal rights, ensuring that families can remain united.”
CARECEN-LA is providing direct legal support, conducting know-your-rights training sessions, advocating for protective statewide and local policies, and collaborating with various agencies and nonprofits to provide food and housing assistance to affected families.
Arevalo noted, “We’re offering legal representation for immigration cases and advocating for laws that uphold rights.”
She emphasized the necessity of preparation. “Immigrants—documented or not—must understand their rights and know what to do if approached by federal agents at home or work.”
This includes formulating plans for children and assets. “Homeowners and business proprietors should have clear plans in place regarding their property in case of unexpected detainment.”
Arevalo acknowledged California’s dedication to immigrant rights, positioning the state as a national leader. “We’re fortunate to be in California, which is now the world’s fourth-largest economy.”
Nevertheless, she underlined the struggle to achieve this support. “This advancement didn’t happen overnight; it was the result of a decade of advocacy.”
She called on citizens and permanent residents to advocate for others. “All of us who possess the privilege of citizenship or residency—this is our moment. Immigrant families need our solidarity and action.”
For more information, to volunteer, or to access resources, Arevalo encouraged visiting CARECEN-LA’s website: www.carecen-la.org. “You’ll find essential information regarding immigration legal services, participation in workshops about your rights, and ways to engage.”
Arevalo concluded with both a caution and an optimistic outlook: “This is not solely about others; it concerns the children in your schools who play with your kids, the individuals caring for your children… It’s about the core essence and future of democracy in this nation.”
Categories:
Breaking News Immigration State of California
Tags:
CARECEN-LA Constitution DACA Democratic Principles federal government Immigrant communities Los Angeles Martha Arevalo Temporary Protected Status Trump Administration
