Recent reports highlight the escalating fears experienced by U.S.-born Latino Angelenos in light of increasing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in their communities.
A month ago, concerns were voiced by individuals within the Latino community, emphasizing that many feel unsafe simply because of their appearance and ethnicity.
Jackie Ramirez, a radio host for “The Cruz Show” on Real 92.3, expressed this sentiment stating, “You’re scared to be brown.”
The anxieties intensified with the recent legal battle involving a Latino family from Baldwin Park, who are suing their former landlord and a real estate agent.
The lawsuit centers around what the family claims was an illegal eviction from their home last year.
As part of the legal proceedings, Rod Fehlman, appearing to represent the real estate agent, sent an email on June 25 to their attorney, Sarah McCracken.
In the correspondence, Fehlman suggested that the family should drop their lawsuit, as they could be detained by ICE and deported before the trial takes place.
His email stated, “It is also interesting to note that your clients are likely to be picked up by ICE and deported prior to trial thanks to all the good work the Trump administration has done in regards to immigration in California.”
However, a significant fact remains — every individual in this family is a U.S. citizen.
The email sparked outrage on social media, leading many users on platforms such as X and Bluesky to label Fehlman as racist.
This backlash also reached Cal Poly Pomona, where Fehlman identifies himself as an adjunct professor on his site.
A spokesperson from the university clarified that his temporary contract ended in 2013, absolving the institution of responsibility for his comments.
Yicenia Morales, one of the family members represented by McCracken, expressed feelings of racial profiling due to her last name.
She stated, “It’s not fair for him to take advantage of that. I was born here. I have a birth certificate. I pay taxes.”
Morales added, “I was already depressed over the eviction. Now I’m hurt, embarrassed and nervous as well. Will he really call ICE on us?”
Although Fehlman did not respond to a request for comment from The Times, he later spoke to another outlet, the Independent.
In his comments, he maintained that his words were misinterpreted and insisted, “My email mentions nothing about Ms. McCracken’s client’s citizenship.”
Fehlman continued by stating that the issue of litigants being randomly picked up by ICE is a well-known problem in Southern California, which he labeled as a “sad reality.”
However, observers noted that while the legality of Fehlman’s comments remains unclear, California State Bar regulations prohibit lawyers from threatening criminal charges to gain leverage in civil disputes.
The situation raises the harsh reality that many individuals still perceive Latino communities as distinctly un-American despite the fact that a vast majority of them are U.S. citizens.
This attitude has intensified in the wake of the Trump administration’s tough immigration policy, encouraging individuals to voice their prejudiced views more openly.
It seems that the contributions and sacrifices made by U.S.-born Latinos often go unrecognized by those who view them through a biased lens.
In the face of such challenges, community events like the free concert featuring Adrian Quesada are crucial for promoting culture and unity.
Scheduled for August 2 at Grand Performances, alongside the De Los team, the concert will feature Quesada, known for his Grammy-winning work with Black Pumas.
Quesada has recently released a follow-up album, “Boleros Psícodelicos II,” which beautifully combines psychedelia with traditional Latin sounds.
Prior to Quesada’s performance, there will be acts like El Marchante and Explorare, who aim to celebrate Latin American and Caribbean music.
Grand Performances, founded in 1987, has a rich history of offering free outdoor performances that celebrate cultural arts.
The lineup has previously included renowned names such as Stevie Wonder and Ana Tijoux, fostering community engagement through music.
Furthermore, the De Los team will be present early, offering free posters and other perks to attendees, thus enhancing community participation.
In other news, the broader Latino community is facing numerous challenges.
A DACA recipient recently faced deportation after making a mistake at the U.S.-Mexico border.
In a tragic incident, a family is remembering a loved one who lost his life during an ICE raid in Camarillo.
Human Rights Watch has reported on the intolerable conditions faced by ICE detainees, illuminating the often-dehumanizing practices at detention centers.
Additionally, Latino journalists and community members like Mario Guevara have voiced disturbing experiences related to ICE, pointing out the emotional toll of such encounters.
With these ongoing challenges, non-profit organizations, including the L.A. Catholic Church, are stepping up to deliver support to immigrants.
Through community outreach initiatives, they provide essential services such as food and medicine to those who are afraid due to immigration enforcement raids.
As many local organizations and artists rally to raise awareness and provide assistance, the fight for justice and support continues within these communities.
The response to issues surrounding immigration and the treatment of Latinos remains a crucial topic of conversation, showcasing the complexities and discrimination deeply embedded in society.
With numerous performances and community activities, the spirit of unity and resilience shines through, reminding everyone involved that they are part of a greater community fighting against injustice and misinformation.
image source from：latimes
