San Diego’s immigration court has become a focal point of concern and community action following a surge in arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents starting May 20. Activists, volunteers, and advocates have transformed the hallways of the courthouse into a space of solidarity and support for asylum seekers facing detention.
As reports of arrests emerged, community members quickly mobilized to document each incident. By May 22, volunteers were actively engaged, ensuring that detainees were not alone and recording vital information for families separated by ICE actions.
Ruth Mendez, a dedicated volunteer with Detention Resistance, a collective advocating for immigrants’ rights, recounted her experience in the courtroom. Mendez was accompanying a close friend and asylum seeker during a routine hearing when ICE agents approached him, claiming they needed to speak with him. Despite assurances from the judge that her friend was granted a continuance, the ICE agents detained him immediately afterward.
The rapid response from advocacy networks showcased the community’s resilience. Mendez communicated the unfolding situation to others, and within days, around 30 volunteers were present to assist those at risk of detention.
Volunteers were organized into three distinct groups: one group focused on documenting arrests in the hallways, another observed public hearings for case trends, and the third provided crucial resources, such as Know Your Rights cards, to individuals in the courthouse.
The diversity of the volunteer base is striking, including retired court reporters, students, researchers, and local residents. New volunteers, like Susan and Leonard, joined the effort after learning about the arrests through news reports. Their initial experience was emotionally challenging, yet they were motivated to provide support where they could.
Susan emphasized the importance of connecting with detainees, stating, “It makes sense to me, that being able to look somebody in the eyes, even if I don’t speak their language, and (say) ‘we’re trying to help you, here’s some information that might help you.’” Leonard, reflecting on the emotional toll of witnessing the arrests, described it as “gut-wrenching” to see individuals stripped of their rights.
Alondra Alvarez, another dedicated volunteer, carries a miniature U.S. Constitution and a rosary in her pockets. For her, it’s crucial to remind others, including ICE agents, that the community cares. She recalled the terrified families gripping their children’s hands as they entered the courtroom, highlighting the overwhelming sense of resignation among those witnessing the arrests.
Alvarez shared the sentiments of loved ones who witnessed family members detained, emphasizing that they were aware of the risks but did not see their relatives as criminals. “They’ve been working hard, they do these jobs, they pay taxes, they don’t deserve this,” she recounted.
Among the volunteers are veterans of immigration advocacy and those just beginning. Emily Mahmoud, who volunteers weekly at the courthouse, personally connects with the cause, citing her grandfather’s immigration journey from Egypt. Mahmoud articulated a shared goal—to ensure that immigrants know they are not alone during their challenging experiences.
The atmosphere in the courthouse has been marred by the aggressive conduct of ICE agents, a reality that many volunteers have found traumatizing. Mahmoud described witnessing the dehumanization of individuals during arrests as heart-wrenching, echoing the broader feelings of helplessness that accompany such encounters.
Despite the challenges, the efforts of volunteers have seen some positive outcomes. Mendez celebrated the release of her detained friend, whom the judge granted bond. The collaboration of attorneys who offered pro bono assistance and advocates who helped pay the bond reflects the strength of community support.
Looking ahead, volunteers remain committed to their cause, determined not to cease their advocacy until ICE agents are no longer a presence in the courthouse. Mendez, along with her fellow advocates, seeks to create a safe environment where asylum seekers can navigate their hearings without fear.
Alvarez articulated the profound impact that volunteers can have, stating, “I’ve seen first hand what a warm and welcoming face means to people that are being detained by ICE. I’ll continue showing up for my community as long as ICE keeps terrorizing them and violating laws in the process.”
As the situation continues to unfold, the commitment of volunteers underscores the importance of community in advocating for the rights and dignity of asylum seekers at a time when many feel vulnerable and isolated.
image source from：timesofsandiego
