For nearly two years, immigrant communities across the Central Coast have faced kidnapping, family separation, and escalating violence at the hands of ICE. And now, as Californians begin to vote, ICE activity is surging – in an attempt to bring more fear and intimidation into our communities.
As of Tuesday afternoon, at least 32 of our neighbors in the region have been taken by ICE this week. Parents. Neighbors. Workers. Families torn apart.
But we are not powerless. We know how to respond. We know how to protect each other. We know how to organize. And we know that information is power.
The same forces profiting while working families struggle with rising costs are attacking our communities and trying to make voting harder. But here in California, we make voting easy, safe, and secure for every voter – and we will not be intimidated from showing our anger with our ballots.
They want us afraid, isolated, and silent. We have – and will always – choose courage and solidarity.
Here’s how we fight back:
Get rapid response alerts and share information with our local rapid response networks:
- In Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties, connect with the 805 Rapid Response Network (IG, FB) | 805-870-8855
- In Ventura County, join VC Defensa | 805-296-1119
- In Santa Barbara, check out SB Resiste (IG, FB)
Support impacted neighbors by donating to 805 UndocuFund and help families prepare and respond.
Vote early – make your voice heard.
Protect – know your rights. Share information.
Defend – stand together and make sure every vote is counted.
They can try to spread fear, but we know how to respond by sharing information.
They can try to isolate us, but we know that when we organize, we’re unstoppable.
They can try to silence us, but that will only make us show up more and louder.
Our communities are powerful when we stand together – let’s show what real power looks like.