Jan. 22, 2025 – Oakland, CA – The Unity Council, alongside our dedicated partners, is committed to protecting and uplifting Oakland’s immigrant families and undocumented residents. In uncertain times, we choose power over panic. Now more than ever, it’s essential to know your rights, understand your responsibilities, and access the legal, healthcare, and community resources available to you.
At a press conference convened by The Unity Council, CEO Chris Iglesias reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to immigrant communities, stating, “We will not be intimidated. We are well-prepared, and we will continue helping those in need. We will protect our immigrant families.” This message was echoed by community leaders, elected officials, and advocacy organizations who are working to ensure Oakland remains a place where all residents can feel safe and supported.
Jane Garcia, CEO of La Clínica de la Raza, underscored the critical role of healthcare in protecting immigrant communities. She reaffirmed that La Clínica has been providing healthcare for over 50 years and will continue to serve all individuals—regardless of immigration status, race, ethnicity, health insurance, housing status, ability to pay, or gender identity. Patients are not and will not be required to show proof of citizenship, immigration documentation, or a Social Security number. La Clínica remains committed to ensuring equal access to qualified healthcare services, including gender-affirming care, sexual and reproductive health services, and protections for patients, families, staff, and clinic locations.
Centro Legal de la Raza’s Executive Director, Monique Berlanga, announced the launch of the Alameda County Immigrant Legal and Education Partnership (ACILEP) Hotline on February 17, along with a new website providing essential information, including Know Your Rights materials, a calendar of legal workshops, and updates on the hotline’s operations. Alameda County Supervisor Elisa Márquez further strengthened these efforts by pledging $50,000 from her office to reinvigorate ACILEP, reaffirming that Oakland’s immigrant communities will not stand alone.
Elected officials at every level are stepping up to defend immigrant rights. Newly elected California State Senator Jesse Arreguín shared that the state is working to approve $50 million in emergency funding to support legal action against federal policies threatening birthright citizenship and sanctuary protections.
Meanwhile, Oakland City Councilmember Noel Gallo announced his plan to introduce legislation that would prevent ICE agents from accessing schools, parks, and transit spaces, ensuring our public spaces remain safe for all.
Alameda County Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas also introduced a new initiative, “Alameda County Together for All,” a committee dedicated to protecting vulnerable communities from harmful federal policies. The Unity Council, alongside our Resilient Fruitvale partners, proudly advocated for this effort, and the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously in its favor. Alameda County Supervisor Lena Tam reinforced this commitment, stating, “We, in Alameda County, are a sanctuary county, and we are unapologetic about it. We are home to over half a million immigrants and refugees. They are my parents, our parents, our neighbors.”
Oakland School Board Director Valarie Bachelor reaffirmed the school district’s commitment to its sanctuary status, emphasizing that OUSD will continue standing in support of students and families. A representative from U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon’s office affirmed their solidarity with immigrant families, recognizing their vital contributions to the community.
Oakland Interim-Mayor Jenkins joined leaders in standing in support of the city’s immigrant communities, reinforcing that Oakland remains steadfast in its role as a sanctuary city and a place of refuge for all.
The Unity Council remains steadfast in its mission to protect, support, and uplift our immigrant communities. We are well-prepared, we will not back down, and we will continue to stand together—because Oakland is strongest when we rise as one.
