LOS ANGELES – The L.A. Welcomes Collective, a network of immigrant rights, immigration legal services providers, and faith organizations focused on migrant rapid response, extended welcoming words and proceeded to take action assisting a group of migrants bussed from Texas to Los Angeles on Wednesday. Members of the Collective indicated Los Angeles will not turn its back on human beings, families and children, who have experienced unspeakable trauma, persecution, and natural disasters, and who in their time of need look to our city for kindness and compassion. The members of the LA Welcomes Collective include: Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice (CLUE-LA), Central American Resource Center-Los Angeles (CARECEN), Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project, and Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef).
“It is in all the religious traditions to affirm the dignity of every human being, specially the most vulnerable. Today we affirmed the dignity and humanity of those who are fleeing horrific situations in their country to seek refuge, after having to embark on a very dangerous journey that is usually filled with peril and violence,” said Guillermo Torres, Director of Programming for Immigration, at Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice.
“This country was founded, in part, by people fleeing intolerance, persecution and violence and sought refuge in a new place. Those seeking asylum and arriving in Los Angeles, are coming here for the very same reasons and for the promise of a better life. As Angelenos, living in one of the most immigrant-populated cities in the U.S., we are coming together to assist and welcome individuals and families with humanity, empathy and dignity to ensure they find the protection and thrive in their new home,” said Angelica Salas, Executive Director for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). “Moments like these provide an opportunity to demonstrate our values as we respond to the needs of vulnerable people. All migrants—including families and children—should be welcomed with compassion and respect. Here in Los Angeles, we are proud to stand with our partners as we welcome people with dignity. Together, we will not allow human beings to be used as political props. Immigrant Defenders Law Center is honored to provide legal services to any migrant who arrives in Los Angeles and to stand by our motto, ‘No Immigrant Stands Alone,’” said Lindsay Toczylowski, Executive Director of Immigrant Defenders Law Center. “Our shared humanity is constantly reminded of the enduring testament of love and compassion during times like these. The Los Angeles community embraces the call to do what is right and extends a heartfelt and dignified welcome to the newly arrived refugees and migrant families. We will work tirelessly to ensure they receive the support and resources available,” said Martha Arevalo, CARECEN Executive Director. “We in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles are united in our mission to serve all humanity, recognizing the dignity of every human being. We are called to be a voice for those who have no voice, guiding them along a path of restoration. Our work to help migrants is that of mercy, emulating the love of God for his people,” said Michael P. Donaldson, senior director of the Office of Life, Justice and Peace of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. ### | 
