Local officials to host "Know Your Rights" webinar for immigrant community
This collaborative effort aims to inform and empower residents following an increase in ICE raids.
REDLANDS, Calif. — A coalition of local and state officials is set to host a "Know Your Rights" webinar on Feb. 18, focusing on providing crucial information and resources to the immigrant community in San Bernardino County.
Why it matters: This collaborative effort comes at a time when immigrant communities across the nation face increased uncertainty and concerns about their rights and safety. By bringing together multiple offices and organizations, the webinar aims to provide a comprehensive overview of available resources and up-to-date information.
Details: The virtual event, scheduled from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., will bring together representatives from various government offices and organizations to address concerns and offer guidance during what organizers describe as "uncertain times."
Senator Eloise Gomez Reyes’ office is spearheading the initiative in coordination with Assembly Member Robert Garcia, with participation from Senator Sabrina Cervantes, Assembly Members James Ramos, Juan Carillo and Corey Jackson, as well as Senator Stephen Padilla and Congressman Pete Aguilar.
The webinar will feature presentations from several key organizations. The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) will cover basic rights for immigrants, legal resources and information on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) permits.
Representatives from the Attorney General's Office are slated to discuss guidance changes, resources for victims of hate crimes and the Department of Justice's course of action.
The Consulate of Mexico will introduce a new phone application designed to assist Mexican nationals in the U.S. if they face detention or deportation. The app enables users to send emergency alerts to family members, lawyers and the nearest consulate officials.
Ted Alejandre, the County Superintendent, will provide a pre-recorded video statement reaffirming the county's commitment to maintaining schools as safe spaces for students, free from deportation fears.
What they’re saying: Organizers emphasize the importance of community participation in the webinar.
"We encourage everyone to join us for this informative session, ask questions and connect with others in the community," the invitation states. "Together, we can ensure that everyone is empowered and equipped with the knowledge they need to stay safe and supported.”
Zoom out: San Bernardino County is home to an estimated 127,000 undocumented immigrants, according to data from a Migration Policy Institute analysis.
Following the inauguration of President Donald Trump and a flurry of executive orders, there has been increased Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. Raids and deportations have sparked protests across the nation, including demonstrations in San Bernardino.
Redlands police released a statement assuring the community that it will not participate in federal immigration enforcement efforts. Read our article about it here.
Moving Forward: Those interested in attending the "Know Your Rights" webinar can find more information and register through the official websites of the participating officials or by contacting their offices directly.
Click this link to be taken to Senator Reyes’ RSVP page.
