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Community Is Stronger Than Authoritarianism
September 9, 2025

Yesterday, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Trump administration’s fascist interests and against the constitutional and human rights of Angelenos. In an unprecedented decision, justices essentially gave immigration agents under Trump free reign to racially profile and detain individuals based solely on their skin color, language, and occupation. While the original case that barred this type of activity is still pending, yesterday’s decision has serious implications for the safety and justice of communities across the United States.

In response to the unlawful raids in Los Angeles that began this summer, UPI developed a “know your rights” training for community violence intervention (CVI) organizations so they could continue safely serving their communities in the face of increased risks. We strive to remain hopeful, while also recognizing that the Supreme Court’s ruling will likely ramp up ICE raids and make it more dangerous for Brown community members. 

Now more than ever, we need to invest in and support community-led systems of safety that lean on the well-established credibility and relationships of CVI workers (peacemakers) and others at the forefront. Peacemakers are not only uniquely qualified to stop violence within their communities, they also stand on the frontlines engaging and protecting those most at risk of being harmed by state-sanctioned violence at the hands of immigration agents. 

As the situation continues to evolve, UPI is committed to advocating for and protecting the rights, dignity and freedom of all Angelenos. We know it doesn’t stop here. Our community partners in other cities face similar dangers with Trump deploying the military in Washington, D.C. and threatening to do so in Chicago. We stand in solidarity with immigrant communities and our CVI partners across the country. Community is stronger than authoritarianism. ICE out of LA!

HELPFUL TIPS:

Document ICE interactions:

  • Date and time
  • Number of officers present
  • What agencies officers are from
  • Reason officers provided for being there
  • Was a warrant presented? What kind of warrant? 
  • What happened? Did ICE enter the premises, take photos, have weapons, or mistreat anyone? 
  • Did officers arrest anyone? If so, who?
  • Did they take anything? If so, what?

You can report ICE sightings or interactions to the CHIRLA hotline at: 888-624-4752

Before going out:

  • Memorize the phone number of a trusted person to call in case of arrest.
  • Store important documents (birth certificates, immigration papers) in a secure accessible location and tell someone you trust how to access them. 
  • If you have legal status, carry those documents (U.S. passport, green card) with you.

If ICE shows up:

  • Do not intervene with arrests. 
  • You can ask for a name and badge number.
  • Take photos and videos if it is safe to do so.

If you get arrested:

  • Do not sign anything ICE gives you.
  • Remain silent. 
  • Do not provide false information.
  • Seek legal help and ask for a lawyer. 

For more information, resources or referrals, contact UPI at info@urbanpeaceinstitute.org.

Additional resources can be found at: