No matter the color of our skin, the languages we speak, or the work we do to make ends meet, all Californians should be able to move safely through our cities and neighborhoods free from intimidation and harassment. That's what we believe at the ACLU SoCal, and fortunately, that's what a federal court affirmed late Friday night.
A U.S. District judge found that the federal government's ongoing immigration raids across Southern California and its denial of access to counsel for arrested immigrants likely violated the Constitution.
Friday’s orders – though temporary – are a win for our communities and will prohibit the federal government, including the Department of Homeland Security, from continuing its unlawful actions.
Since June 6, over 2,300 people – workers, students, mothers, fathers, grandparents, and residents across the southland – have been violently abducted and disappeared by federal agents simply for having dark skin or otherwise “appearing” as though they might be an immigrant.
These governmental actions have been devastating for so many people, tearing families apart, and interrupting lives. Parents are afraid to take their children to school. Once vibrant food markets and gathering areas are emptying. Church members are afraid to congregate and worship, and our loved ones are reluctant to leave their homes.
The Trump administration must be held accountable for its lawless actions. True to our mission, the ACLU SoCal will continue to do just that.
Friday's crucial win is one of many reasons why I am deeply honored to return to the ACLU as the SoCal affiliate's newest executive director at this pivotal moment in our country's history.
As our region and country confront the greatest threat to our constitutional rights of this generation, our team of dedicated advocates and organizers will remain on the front line of the struggle to protect and advance the dignity and well-being of all our communities.
Everyone has a role to play in this fight. Please contact your local rapid response network if you observe immigration activity or if a loved one has been arrested by immigration agents. It is by community members speaking up and protecting their neighbors that we keep our community members safe.
Chandra S. Bhatnagar is executive director of the ACLU Foundation of Southern California.
