Last week in Los Angeles, President Donald Trump and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ramped up federal immigration enforcement raids, separating families and holding people in conditions that have concerned immigration lawyers. In response, thousands of protestors have rallied on the streets for seven consecutive days, and more than 450 people have been arrested in Los Angeles County, according to CBS.
In light of the ongoing protests, Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard members and 700 U.S. Marines, despite California Governor Gavin Newsom’s objection. While the National Guard typically serves both state and federal levels, CNN reports Trump put a rarely used federal law into action because the protests are “a form of rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States.”
As additional protests spread across the country, here is how you can safely make a difference no matter where you are.
Donate to people impacted by the raids.
If you are willing and able to make monetary contributions, the following organizations are accepting donations that will go to those affected by the raids:
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- National Immigration Justice Center (NIJC)
- Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA)
- Pineros Y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste (PCUN)
- Immigrant Defense Project (IDP)
- Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP)
- United We Dream
Donate your time.
If what’s happening in our current climate does not sit well with you, then make sure your voice is heard. You can call your elected officials and demand action—find a list of elected officials here.
You can also send strongly-worded emails directly to the Trump administration. The ACLU has organized an email campaign featuring a pre-written message that will call on officials to block mass deportations. You can fill out their automated form or send customized letters here.
If you are on the ground, be safe and know your rights.
While demonstrations started in California on Friday, June 6, they have since spread across the country to Texas, Illinois, and New York. CNN reports that authorities have allegedly used tear gas, flash bang grenades, pepper spray, and rubber bullets to disperse protesters in Los Angeles. If you’re using your voice on the grounds during these protests, it is important to know your rights. Please read up on what is and is not permitted when protesting, compiled by the ACLU here and here.
Know what resources are available for those affected.
Anxiety and uncertainty in these times can take a toll on the mental health of those affected. Find a list of resources local to Los Angeles below, provided by local news outlet KTLA:
- Crisis Text Line: Text “LA” to 741741 to confidentially chat with a trained volunteer crisis counselor for free, 24/7.
- UCLA Immigrant Justice California Health Resource Guide: This guide includes accessible health, mental health, and domestic violence services in the Central Valley, Inland Empire, Orange County, and San Diego for immigrants and refugees, including those who might be undocumented, with or without insurance.
- Supporting Young Children Experiencing Separation and Trauma: A directory of early childhood mental health specialists in California and beyond.
- California Pan-Ethnic Health Network: A statewide compilation of mental health resources for immigrant communities.
- USAHello Mental Health Services: Online mental health information and links to local services in multiple languages.
The Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) has also compiled a spreadsheet full of resources, from legal aid to educational reads.
Sam is an assistant news editor at Cosmo, covering all things pop culture, entertainment, and celebrity news. She previously covered those same topics along with health, lifestyle, and beauty at Seventeen. When she isn't catching a concert or live-tweeting awards shows, you can likely find her judging DJ sets at parties.
