LA Schools Aim for Safe Haven Amidst Immigration Raids and Fears of Deportations
Amidst ongoing immigration concerns, Jennifer Cortez, a teacher at Brooklyn Avenue School in East Los Angeles, stood outside an elementary and middle school with a sign reading “Safe Space for Immigrants.” This gesture came as over half a million students in the second largest district in the nation, Los Angeles Unified School District, started a new academic year on Thursday.
Anna Bermudez, a parent, was among those present with her children. She noticed a significant decrease in attendance compared to previous years, attributing it to the immigration-related fears and uncertainties that have been escalating since the spring.
“It’s disheartening and devastating,” said Bermudez, whose son attends eighth grade at the school. “This should be a joyous day, but instead, we’re filled with apprehension.”
In response to these concerns, Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho announced enhanced safety measures, expanded mental health resources, and free legal aid for families. He reassured the community, “Our schools are safe spaces. No one will enter without a court order. We will protect our children, we will protect our communities.”
Recent immigration raids have increased since the end of the school year this spring, with some taking place close to schools. On Monday, a 15-year-old boy named Nathan Mejia, who has special needs, was detained outside Arleta High School by federal immigration agents. However, he was later released following an intervention by a bystander due to a case of mistaken identity.
Nathan’s mother, Andreina Mejia, revealed that the agents showed her a picture resembling her son, but it wasn’t actually him. After the incident, Nathan, who is a US citizen, expressed his desire to leave Los Angeles.
School officials have been proactive in protecting and defending students and families ahead of their return to classes. They launched the “We Are One” campaign, offering resources for all students and families, regardless of immigration status. Additionally, Carvalho requested that immigration authorities refrain from conducting enforcement activities within a two-block radius around schools during school hours.
School administrators and teachers have expressed their commitment to ensuring the safety and education of every student. Cortez, a teacher at Brooklyn Avenue School, emphasized, “We want to make sure that everyone receives the education they deserve. We don’t want anyone to miss school or feel unwelcome.”
Incidents of immigration officials denying entry to schools have been reported. In April, administrators at two elementary schools barred Department of Homeland Security officials from entering. A nearby teacher, with 20 years of experience, stated, “It’s frightening for the children. They see these ICE agents, covered up and masked, and it’s terrifying for the students.” However, her priority remains unchanged: “As educators, our priority is keeping the children safe, and we won’t let them intimidate or bother our parents or students.”