Immigrant Magazine - LA Unites to Protect Immigrants: Resources, Legal Aid & Hope Amid Deportation Fear
In a stirring show of unity, officials from the City of Los Angeles stood shoulder-to-shoulder with nonprofit leaders at Community Build in Leimert Park to announce a sweeping coalition effort in response to the fear and instability caused by recent deportation-related unrest. Organized under the banner of the “Together in Service” initiative, the event underscored the city’s unwavering commitment to supporting its immigrant communities through tangible services, healing spaces, and civil rights protections.
The press conference brought together voices from across city departments and a powerful alliance of nonprofits to deliver one message: Los Angeles is for everyone.
Capri Maddox, Executive Director of the LA Civil Rights Department, addressed the deep anxiety many immigrant families are facing. “We know the chaos that’s been happening in Los Angeles regarding deportations. People are afraid to get groceries, diapers, go to work or the doctor. Many African immigrants and mixed-status families feel targeted and unseen,” she said in an interview with The Immigrant Magazine. Maddox emphasized that organizations like YMCA, Community Build, and Family Source Centers are offering legal aid, mental health services, and “Know Your Rights” resources. “We want you to know you are not alone. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you.”
Courtney Morgan Greene, Commissioner with the LA Civil Rights Department, reiterated that the Human Relations Commission is actively working to bridge the gap between the city and its diverse communities. “This chaos wreaked by federal immigration enforcement is creating fear across immigrant communities from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. We want you to know that LA stands with you. We love you, and we are here to serve you.”
Abigail Thapong Zelinsky, Chair of the Civil Rights Commission, reminded attendees that Los Angeles law prohibits discrimination based on immigration status. “If you are experiencing harassment or discrimination, our Civil Rights Enforcement Department is here for you—regardless of your immigration status, language, or country of origin,” she said, noting the department provides translation services in over 80 languages.