Why Advocacy?
(Scroll down for actions you can take)
As we continue to engage volunteers to meet the needs of our neighbors affected by the fires we realize that this is a critical moment to demand the policies, resources and commitment needed to ensure a recovery that is both sustainable and just. That’s ADVOCACY!
For those of you interested in advocating for our neighbors who struggle economically, here is your page for action that is within the Volunteer Collective's mission of helping our neighbors who struggle economically.
Advocacy activities vary as the issues emerge. Sometimes it is calls, meetings, email campaigns or showing up at city council, but it is always being part of a group that cares about neighbors and neighborhoods. If there is something coming up we will put in a link, or you can sign up with the group and they will let you know what is coming down the pike.
Sign up below for advocacy updates!
ACTION ITEMS
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CHIRLA DOCUMENTS LIST
Important information that every family should know
Names, phone numbers, and birthdates of all family members
Phone numbers for your children's school, doctor, and workplace (if applicable)
Create a list of allergies, medical conditions, and medications for everyone in your household (if applicable)
Phone number for the Consulate of your country of origin
Phone number for an Immigration Attorney
______________________________
Important documents that should be kept in a safe place
Birth and marriage certificates (if applicable)
Passport from your country (for each person)
Vaccination card (for children)
Social security card (if applicable)
Identification card
Affidavit of the person who will be responsible for your children in your absence
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YMCA care package assembly
YMCAs are helping with distribution of food and supplies, free mental health support, and New American Welcome Center resources.
If you are looking to support our communities, donations of the following are needed:
Non-perishable food items (canned goods, rice, pasta)
Personal hygiene items
Household essentials (toilet paper, laundry detergent, cleaning supplies)
Baby and children's items (formula, diapers, wipes, snacks)
Items can be brought to the following Y centers: Anderson Munger, Ketchum-Downtown, Mid Valley, San Fernando Gardens, Southeast-Rio Vista, Weingart East Los Angeles, and Wilmington
If you are looking to volunteer to support contact Volunteer@ymcaLA.org.
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Rapid Response Network
If you have encountered an ICE raid or checkpoint, call your local rapid response network.
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LA Times - Daunted by our nation’s big problems? Start local.
The secret to building back trust in government and other institutions is not centered on what’s happening in Washington, but in our own communities
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Spreadsheet Brigade
Chelsea Kirk of Strategic Action for a Just Economy has encouraged volunteers to become the “spreadsheet brigade,” tracking rental price gouging in the city. You can help!
Know your rights!
What can you do if ICE knocks on your door?
If you’re home alone or with family members and you hear a knock at the door, check the window, security camera or peephole so you can identify if ICE agents are outside.
When you find yourself in this situation, the first step is to keep your door closed and locked, advised advocacy groups and legal experts.
You must open your door and allow agents inside your home if they present a valid search warrant.
Advocates say agents must identify themselves and show you the warrant by putting it against the window or slipping it under your door.
A valid warrant must be:
Issued by a court.
Have the correct name and address of the person being seized.
Signed by a judge or magistrate judge.
An invalid warrant would be:
Issued by the Department of Homeland Security.
An ICE administrative document (Form I-200 or Form I-205).
Signed by an Immigration officer