Pictured: Jasmin at the border in 2019 during a volunteer trip with the organization Al Otro Lado. At the time, Jasmin was working at an immigration law firm during the first Trump presidency.
Whenever people ask me what my plans are now that I have more time, my answer remains the same: I am going to do what I love most—write. Writing has always been my refuge, a way to express my deepest emotions and make sense of the world around me.
Earlier this week, I felt despair about everything happening in the world. But when I began writing, the words poured out. Writing is my way of healing, and I will continue to use it to share my thoughts and resources with the community. Lately, my heart and mind have been focused on my immigrant community. As an immigrant myself, I deeply empathize with my brothers and sisters who live in constant fear under this new administration. It’s a million times worse now than it was before and it can be felt everywhere.
After days of reflection and powerful conversations with friends and leaders, I knew I had to take action—I refuse to feel helpless. There is so much we can do, and now, more than ever, we need to make our voices heard. We need to stand up and protect our immigrant brothers and sisters.
Taking Action: What We Can Do
Check In with Your Immigrant Brothers and Sisters
With technology at our fingertips, reaching out has never been easier. A simple call or text to let them know you are thinking of them can go a long way. Ask how you can support them during this challenging time.
Distribute Know Your Rights Cards
The Immigrant Legal Resource Center provides “Know Your Rights” cards, which I have printed in bulk on business card paper for a low price at Staples. I have already distributed them within my church community. If you are part of an organization that needs more than 1,000 cards, the ILRC website offers a link to order in bulk. These cards provide crucial information that could protect lives.
Stay Informed
Knowledge is power. I am actively educating myself about the detention system, researching lists of immigration and civil rights attorneys, and staying alert for any ICE activity in my community. Here are some valuable resources:
Amplifying the Movement
Utilize Existing Resources
There is no need to reinvent the wheel. Many incredible organizations have already compiled vital information for immigrant communities. If you see something missing, reach out and offer to help. Collaboration strengthens our collective impact.
Uplift Immigrant Stories
If you have media connections, use them to highlight positive immigrant stories. The narrative right now is overwhelmingly negative, but we must counter that with the truth—immigrants contribute immensely to our communities and society. Let’s shine a light on their resilience, strength, and success.
Engage in Lobbying and Advocacy Work
Advocacy has never been more critical. It is up to state and local governments to protect our immigrant communities, and we must hold them accountable. Call, email, and visit your representatives. Demand action.
Run for Office
I am seriously considering it. We need leaders in power who genuinely care about our communities. Too few elected officials are fighting this battle, and it breaks my heart to see them struggle alone. Representation matters, and we need more voices in positions of influence.
We Cannot Give Up
Robert Reich recently shared additional actions we can take, and I encourage you to explore his list for further inspiration. But most importantly, we must keep going. Take the time you need to rest and process everything, but once you are ready, roll up your sleeves and get back to work. Our community needs us now more than ever.
I will walk beside you every step of the way, ready to uplift and support you.
#DCLatinaInspires