The United States has long been known as a land of immigrants, and today, California exemplifies this tradition more than any other state. Over 25% of California’s residents are first-generation immigrants, a figure unmatched in the rest of the country.
In fact, more than half of California’s population, and around 62% of Los Angeles County, either were born in another country or have at least one immigrant parent, as highlighted in a Pew Research Center analysis of U.S. Census data.
However, with Donald Trump set to assume office next month, there is a growing sense of fear and anticipation among immigrant communities. At the forefront of the incoming president’s agenda is a commitment to stringent immigration policies. His 20-point plan includes sealing the border to halt what he terms a “migrant invasion” and initiating what he claims would be the “largest deportation operation in American history.”
The administration’s plans don’t stop there. They have expressed intentions to use military resources and establish large-scale detention facilities to deport millions, including U.S. citizens who have undocumented family members. There’s talk of revoking temporary legal protections for numerous immigrants, reinstating the controversial Muslim ban, and abolishing birthright citizenship. These severe measures threaten to fracture families, dismantle communities, and have far-reaching negative effects on the economy.
Given these looming threats, it’s more crucial than ever to highlight the indispensable role immigrants play in society. Immigrants have always infused the nation with vitality, driving growth, diversity, and innovation. California alone is home to over 11 million first-generation immigrants, representing a spectrum of backgrounds and lifestyles. This includes influential figures such as L.A. Archbishop José Gomez, L.A. Unified School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, labor activist Ada Briceño, and major business leaders like Sundar Pichai of Google and Jensen Huang of Nvidia—all testament to the richness immigrants bring.
California’s standing as the fifth-largest economy globally underscores the magnitude of potential impacts from proposed immigration policies. Deportation efforts could target a diverse cross-section of society—teachers, coaches, child-care and healthcare providers among them. The state’s vast agricultural output, crucial for supplying a significant share of the country’s vegetables, fruits, and nuts, relies heavily on immigrant labor, much of which is undocumented. Additionally, the construction and service sectors are similarly supported by immigrants.
Beyond the economic implications, the emotional and physical toll on immigrant families and their children could be devastating. Immigrant rights organizations are ramping up efforts once again, resurrecting initiatives initially set in motion during the Trump and Obama eras. These include “know your rights” workshops that offer legal guidance and support, as well as programs designed to help parents prepare emergency plans for their children in the event of detention. Plans for marches and rallies are also in motion, aiming to galvanize public support.
Local governments are stepping up as well. Los Angeles leaders, including the school board, City Council, and County Board of Supervisors, have reinforced sanctuary city policies, limiting collaboration with federal immigration enforcement. Funding for legal defense services has increased, alongside broader commitments to shield immigrants from federal plans. However, more action may be necessary to counteract extreme anti-immigration measures and protect vulnerable families and children.
Individuals, too, can contribute meaningfully by supporting immigrant rights organizations, assisting permanent residents with citizenship applications, and reaching out to their congressional representatives to advocate for immigrant protections. Encouragement can also come in the form of participating in rallies, protests, and local government meetings to stand alongside immigrant families against inhumane policies.
Should the new administration’s plans take shape, the reality of their impact on immigrant communities will become undeniable, revealing how these policies harm everyone. At that juncture, it will fall upon all of us to rise in defense of America’s core ideal: that this nation, built by immigrants striving for better futures, has grown stronger through their contributions.
