2025 was a horrendous year for civil liberties, social justice, you name it, but especially for immigrant rights. Repeatedly, when it appeared that matters could not get worse in this arena, they did.

 ICE's enormous, unprecedented funding means more detentions, more illegal deportations and the widespread use of fear tactics alongside the dismemberment of immigration courts.

As we move into 2026 it is time to take stock of what the current policy dynamics are, because they have changed over time. We must consider how we can best mobilize to confront and defeat the inhumane cruelty being unleashed upon our neighborhoods, while recognizing our success, albeit small relatively, in mobilizing large numbers of people to stand with our immigrant neighbors.

The goal of this kickoff 2026 event is to give immigrant rights leaders a stage to provide an overview of where we are, and where we need to direct our efforts. This informative session is designed to deliver the tools concerned community members need to maximize the impact of their efforts to fight back. Come prepared to get involved!

Panelists

·      Fernanda Bustamante, Fuerza Immigration Law

·      Aliza Kazmi – Director Community Relations for Nikki Fortunato Bas, District 5, Alameda Co. Bd of Supervisors

·      ACILEP Representative– Alameda Co. Rapid Response Network