As someone who immigrated to the U.S. with his parents as a child, I empathize with the fear and anxiety many families are feeling as a result of the ICE raids across California that began over the weekend. As a child new to this country, I quickly learned that immigration officers were a source of fear and anxiety, although I didn’t yet understand why.
I know firsthand what it’s like to be stopped by police without cause, and to be questioned by authorities simply for existing, or visiting friends in neighborhoods where I didn’t look like others around me. These memories aren’t abstract policy issues, nor are they news stories happening to other people. They are real and personal.
The Cost of Fear
The recent immigration raids have left many in our communities—especially older adults, caregivers, and essential workers—uncertain and afraid. For those already affected by racism that has been entrenched in our systems and structures, these actions deepen existing vulnerabilities. And for older immigrants, many of whom have worked for decades contributing to the well-being of California, the fear is compounded by language barriers, limited mobility, and increased reliance on others for care and support.
I know the cost of these actions. It means people are afraid to go to work. It means parents and other caregivers dread the possibility of being separated from their families. It means older adults fear leaving their homes to go grocery shopping, visit the doctor, or see their friends at senior centers for a meal. They fear for the safety of the people they rely on for care and support.
Our Commitment to Dignity and Justice
At Archstone Foundation, we believe every person deserves to feel safe and secure in their community, regardless of whether they were born here or elsewhere. We believe that the right to age with dignity and thrive at every age must include the right to live without fear.
We stand in solidarity with California’s immigrant communities, and we uplift their right to protest peacefully, to speak out for justice, and to demand policies that reflect compassion and equity. As my colleagues Jean Accius and Tanisha Davis wrote last month, “especially in turbulent times, we must stand firm in our values.” We see clearly how these moments of crisis intersect with our mission: when caregivers cannot work, older adults suffer; when families are torn apart, communities are weakened; and when fear becomes a constant companion, no one—of any age—can thrive.
Know Your Rights. Share Them Widely.
Everyone has legal rights, regardless of immigration status. It is crucial in moments like these that we affirm our values and equip our communities with tools to protect themselves. We encourage everyone to review and share these resources:
- ACLU’s “Know Your Rights” guide for ICE encounters
- LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs Know Your Rights Resources for Immigrants in Los Angeles County
- National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
- Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) – Red cards
- Immigrants Are LA – Immigration Resources Hub
These moments test us—not only our policies, but our values. As a foundation, and as individuals who care deeply about the well-being of older adults and their families, we remain unwavering in our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We will continue to stand with immigrant communities and to join in common cause with all who believe in dignity, safety, and the right to age without fear.
Read our blog, "As Policy Shifts Threaten Lives, Philanthropy Must Act Fast – and Listen First," to learn about our rapid response initiative and how we're listening to and supporting our grantees during this alarming time.
Comments
Lisa, Thank you for your kind words, for standing in solidarity alongside us and our allies, and for your own courageous leadership in building a world rooted in justice, equity, and dignity for people of all ages.
Thank you for this powerful message and your unwavering commitment to immigrants’ rights—and to human rights more broadly. In the elder justice movement, we can’t afford to overlook elders’ rights any longer. It’s time we expand our reach—through our teams, our coalitions, and our daily work—to ensure that older adults have the tools, support, and solidarity they need to stand up for their rights—whether that means accessing the services they qualify for, confronting discrimination, or challenging systems that deny them dignity. This work takes courage and leadership—thanks for yours.