In a decisive move to support illegal immigrant and refugee communities, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors has approved a substantial funding package totaling approximately $3.5 million. This initiative aims to provide essential legal services and community support in response to intensified federal immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration
(California Representatives on a meeting with Congressman Issa)
Comprehensive Funding Allocation
The approved funds are designated for various organizations and services:
- Alameda County Public Defender’s Office Immigration Unit: Allocated $1.3 million to enhance deportation defense and legal services for immigrants facing removal proceedings.
- California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice: Granted $1 million to offer legal assistance to detained immigrants.
- Alameda County Immigration Legal and Education Partnership: Received $700,000 to establish a Rapid Response Hotline, conduct “Know Your Rights” training sessions, and coordinate community volunteer responses.
- Trabajadores Unidos Workers United (TUWU): Allocated $500,000 to provide training, mutual aid, and neighborhood resources to immigrant and refugee communities.
- Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach: Awarded $50,000 to deliver legal services and advocacy to marginalized immigrant communities.
Community-Centric Approach
Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas, chair of the Alameda County Together for All Committee, emphasized the county’s commitment to its diverse population, noting that one-third of residents are immigrants, and half of the children grow up in households with at least one immigrant parent. She highlighted the importance of these funds in reaching every individual potentially at risk due to federal immigration policies.
Public-Private Partnership
Supervisor David Haubert underscored the collaborative nature of this initiative, highlighting that it represents a public-private partnership. This approach ensures that the financial responsibility does not rest solely on the county, as private fundraising efforts are underway to match public contributions. The increased deportation efforts have instilled fear among community members, leading to decreased school attendance and cancellations of healthcare appointments. The funding aims to alleviate these concerns by providing accessible legal support and information, thereby empowering residents to exercise their rights without fear.
Diverse Organizational Support
The organizations benefiting from this funding are deeply rooted in the community:
- California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice: Focuses on liberating immigrants in detention through coordination, advocacy, and legal services.
- Trabajadores Unidos Workers United: Strives to empower working-class immigrants by fostering class consciousness and leadership among low-wage workers.
- Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach: Provides legal services and advocacy to marginalized immigrant communities, ensuring they receive necessary support.
This comprehensive funding package reflects Alameda County’s dedication to protecting and supporting its immigrant and refugee populations, ensuring they have access to vital legal services and community resources amidst challenging federal immigration policies.
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