June 9, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA) – There are moments that call for us to choose – between fear and compassion, division and dignity, silence and courage. This is one of those moments. What we choose now shapes the kind of community and future we are building for our children, our families, and one another.
Federal immigration raids, the deployment of the National Guard, and protests across the county have created an atmosphere of fear, especially for our immigrant families with young children, compounding the trauma some are already experiencing as families are being pulled apart. Immigration policies and aggressive enforcement prioritizing the separation of young children from their primary caregivers, who pose no threat to public safety, further exacerbates the fear.
At First 5 LA, we choose a future rooted in humanity. We choose to stand for dignity, safety, and compassion. Immigrant families are part of our community.
Immigrant communities, including many working families with young children, play a vital role in the strength of our state and local economy. It is because of our immigrant communities and their hard work, that California is the world’s fourth largest economy.
First 5 LA is working with grantees, partners and trusted immigrant justice organizations to align resources and action in response to the impact of recent raids to safeguard and focus on the needs of young children and their families during this turbulent time.
We will not be silent. Fear has no place in early childhood. Deportation is not a child welfare strategy. And no parent should fear that dropping their toddler off at child care or accessing food assistance and other essential services could make them a target.
At First 5 LA, we stand in support and solidarity with our immigrant communities and remain steadfast in our commitment to immigrant and mixed-status families who are integral members of our communities, our workforce, and the cultural richness of Los Angeles County and California.
