Local Immigration Advocacy Groups Pledge to Continue Work, Even Amid New Political Uncertainties
As Donald Trump prepares to take presidential power for a second time in January 2024, local immigration advocates have pledged to continue to do the work necessary to welcome people into the United States.
The California Welcoming Taskforce , a binational coalition that coordinates across humanitarian, legal, health, advocacy, and communications sectors in order to welcome and offer help to newly arrived asylum-seekers and refugees, says they are prepared to continue the fight for human rights.
"We have diligently prepared for this possibility, and are ready to meet the impending Trump administration head on to defend the rights of immigrants and people seeking asylum in our region," the coalition said in a statement, noting that the San Diego border is currently where the highest number of children and adults seeking refuge in the United States are arriving.
"We stand ready to support people seeking asylum and migrants amidst what we know will be a flurry of needlessly cruel and draconian immigration and border policies."
The Immigrant Defenders Law Center , a legal firm with the stated mission of defending immigrant communities against injustices in the immigration system, also released a statement from its chief executive officer and president, Lindsay Toczylowski.
"This election result only fortifies our commitment to continue the fight for due process in court, fair treatment in government custody, and the right of all those fleeing persecution to seek asylum at our borders," Toczylowski said.
"We believe Trump when he promises to enact disastrous policies that aim to tear families apart, destabilize communities, and weaken our economy. But the U.S. Constitution didn't disappear overnight. We will use all the tools we have to protect and defend the rights of all immigrants and asylum seekers."
Donald Trump made immigration and the demonization of immigrants a central talking point of his presidential campaign, up to and including promises to deport millions of people from the United States.
"Today and every day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting and supporting the legal right to seek asylum and safety in the U.S.," said Michael Hopkins, chief executive officer of Jewish Family Service of San Diego , a human services agency that provides aid for refugees and asylum-seekers as part of its mission.
"JFS, along with numerous partners, provides vulnerable families and individuals with respite services, represents long-time immigrants and newcomers in exercising their rights, and resettles refugees in their new homes in San Diego — all with dignity and compassion. We are resilient in pursuing a future where no one stands alone."
