In the wake of rising fears caused by increased immigrant raids, the city of Huntington Park announced Thursday the launch of a new initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable residents.
The introduction of the HP with You program comes at a time of growing uncertainty in the community following reports that unmarked vehicles and unidentified federal agents, particularly those from immigrant families, are leaving uneasy and isolated residents.
“The presence of fear on the streets is not the public safety we believe in,” said Arturo Flores, Mayor of Huntington Park. “HP is sending you a clear message with you. Our residents are not alone. The city of Huntington is standing with you.”
As a result of recent ice attacks, residents have stayed at home, avoided work and withdrawn from the daily lives they built in Huntington Park.
“Our residents should not be afraid to go to work, take their kids to school or walk outside,” said Eddie Martinez, vice-mayor of Huntington Park. “HP with you is more than a program. It’s a promise. We fear facts, support silence, and fulfill uncertainty in our actions.”
The $150,000 program implemented includes:
Community Messaging Campaign: Multilingual material, posters, and digital content that promotes messages such as “Know Your Rights” and “We Keep Each Other Safe”, coupled with a unified visual symbol that reassures residents of the city’s support. Legal Aid and Quick Response Introduction: Partnership with a trusted legal aid organization that provides confidential legal assistance and emergency assistance to residents experiencing immigration-related disruptions without involving law enforcement. Non-stigmatized food distribution: Emergency food access through local nonprofits for families facing fear-related income loss or confusion. City Staff Training: All frontline employees will receive clear, legally reviewed guidance on how to respond to immigration enforcement activities, ensuring residents are treated with respect and redirected to appropriate resources.
Inclusive community outreach and legal support are designed to reassure residents, defend their rights and ensure that they are safe, supported and seen.
The city has recently been hit by an immigrant raid that includes well-known figures such as Land Director Kristi Noem, who will join ICE agents in two operations on June 13th.
Also last month, federal agents of tactical equipment set out to an explosion into a Huntington Park home during law enforcement that surprised a woman inside the house with two young children.
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