Capri Maddox, Executive Director of the LA Civil Rights Department
In a stirring show of unity, officials from the City of Los Angeles stood shoulder-to-shoulder with nonprofit leaders at Community Build in Leimert Park to announce a sweeping coalition effort in response to the fear and instability caused by recent deportation-related unrest. Organized under the banner of the “Together in Service” initiative, the event underscored the city’s unwavering commitment to supporting its immigrant communities through tangible services, healing spaces, and civil rights protections.
The press conference brought together voices from across city departments and a powerful alliance of nonprofits to deliver one message: Los Angeles is for everyone.
Courtney Morgan Greene
Capri Maddox, Executive Director of the LA Civil Rights Department, addressed the deep anxiety many immigrant families are facing. “We know the chaos that’s been happening in Los Angeles regarding deportations. People are afraid to get groceries, diapers, go to work or the doctor. Many African immigrants and mixed-status families feel targeted and unseen,” she said in an interview with The Immigrant Magazine. Maddox emphasized that organizations like YMCA, Community Build, and Family Source Centers are offering legal aid, mental health services, and “Know Your Rights” resources. “We want you to know you are not alone. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you.”
Courtney Morgan Greene, Commissioner with the LA Civil Rights Department, reiterated that the Human Relations Commission is actively working to bridge the gap between the city and its diverse communities. “This chaos wreaked by federal immigration enforcement is creating fear across immigrant communities from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. We want you to know that LA stands with you. We love you, and we are here to serve you.”
Abigail Thapong Zelinsky
Abigail Thapong Zelinsky, Chair of the Civil Rights Commission, reminded attendees that Los Angeles law prohibits discrimination based on immigration status. “If you are experiencing harassment or discrimination, our Civil Rights Enforcement Department is here for you—regardless of your immigration status, language, or country of origin,” she said, noting the department provides translation services in over 80 languages.
Key initiatives announced included:
- Healing-centered dialogues and trauma-informed youth support circles.
- Distribution of food, diapers, and essential items via trusted local partners.
- Legal aid services and “Know Your Rights” workshops for families and agencies.
- Clear pathways for civic engagement and mutual aid through citywide networks.
- Civil rights enforcement for private-sector discrimination based on immigration status, housing, employment, and education.
The press conference featured a diverse array of coalition partners, including:
- YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles (Victor Dominguez, President & CEO)
- American Red Cross Los Angeles Region
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
- Center for Nonprofit Management
- Central City Neighborhood Partners (Diana Alfaro)
- Community Build (Robert Sausado)
- SELA Collaborative
- Students Run LA (Gaby Arvizu)
- Proyecto Pastoral
- Numerous faith-based and community-based organizations
This coalition effort is part of the Together in Service campaign—a citywide volunteerism initiative inspired by the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With a goal of achieving 25 million volunteer hours by 2029, the campaign harnesses the power of partnership to uplift underserved neighborhoods through community service and empowerment. More details are available at ymcala.org/togetherinservice.
What Immigrant Communities Can Do Now:
- Seek support from Family Source Centers, YMCA, and legal partners.
- Report discrimination to LA’s Civil Rights Enforcement Department.
- Volunteer or donate to support civic service efforts and mutual aid networks.
As voices across the coalition echoed, this is not a time for isolation. It is a time for connection, compassion, and courageous service. As Capri Maddox poignantly said, “Keep the faith and keep the fight.”
#LosAngelesForEveryone #ImmigrantRights #TogetherInService #KnowYourRights #LACivilRights #ImmigrantVoices #CommunitySupport #EndDeportationFear
Photos by The Immigrant Magazine
