As Los Angeles students return to school, city officials are implementing new strategies to ensure safety for families without legal status amidst a backdrop of heightened federal immigration enforcement over the summer.
More than 500,000 students are beginning the school year in Los Angeles, but the atmosphere is tense due to recent federal immigration actions. Megan Jamerson from KCRW provides insights into the situation.
In January, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) updated its policy to permit enforcement operations in traditionally protected areas like schools and churches. A DHS statement to NPR on Friday indicated that such enforcement actions in schools are expected to be “extremely rare.” However, the Los Angeles Unified School District is taking proactive steps to safeguard immigrant families. During a press conference, Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the importance of the new measures.
KAREN BASS: We are gathered here today to talk about protecting our children from the federal government.
The district aims to shield students and their families from immigration agents during school commutes. With nearly 75% of the student population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, the district has enhanced bus services to collect students closer to home. Additionally, local police, school staff, and volunteers have established safe passage networks at 100 schools to ensure security before and after classes.
INGRID VILLEDA: Schools are supposed to be a safe space for students.
Ingrid Villeda, an educator at a South LA elementary school, described the efforts taken to create a secure learning environment. Despite few incidents involving schools, fears have escalated after federal agents attempted to enter two elementary schools in April, and a 15-year-old was briefly detained near a high school this week.
VILLEDA: We know that this administration doesn’t honor the sanctity of any safe space. You know, they’ve entered hospitals. They’ve entered churches. And so the school entity is the only one that’s left.
The DHS attributes any climate of fear to the media and “sanctuary politicians,” asserting that its role is to protect schools from criminal elements.
In light of the concerns, Villeda has devised a “walking school bus” initiative, where school staff will collect students directly from their neighborhoods, ensuring a safe journey to school.
VILLEDA: We know how scared people are. We’re scared, too, but we’re going to show up (crying).
Committed to her community, Villeda reassures parents of her support and dedication to protecting their children.
For NPR News, this is Megan Jamerson reporting from Los Angeles.
