The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) began distributing “Red Cards” to students and families in late January as part of efforts to protect them from heightened immigration enforcement. However, some critics argue that the initiative could strain relations with immigration authorities and create challenges for local schools, worrying that giving out these cards might cause tension between LAUSD and federal agencies, making it harder for the district to work with them on other important matters.
The cards, developed by the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, are tiny red cards that fit in a wallet. One side outlines constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent and refuse entry to ICE officers without a warrant. The other side provides guidance on how to respond if approached by immigration agents. Teachers distributed the cards in classrooms, and they are also available to print online at LAUSD’s website.
According to cadashboard.org, 96.1% of students at MACES are of non-American descent. These rights are considered essential for the majority of the school’s population, as they are more likely to be directly affected by immigration enforcement. “It’s sad to see ICE coming into areas we’ve previously deemed safe,” says Uzziel Cruz, a junior at MACES. Cruz, who has been actively involved in spreading awareness about immigrant rights, was recently seen outside of school holding a sign that read “Esta aula es un espacio seguro para inmigrantes” (“This classroom is a safe space for immigrants”). As the son of two immigrants, Cruz believes knowing these rights is crucial so people “know what to do and not to make any mistakes where they could wrongfully take us,” he says.
Teachers play a key role in distributing the cards. “UTLA wanted us to be leafleting,” says Nora Torres, an AP English Literature teacher at MACES. UTLA stands for United Teachers Los Angeles, a union representing LA educators. Torres sees the Red Card as a valuable tool, especially in a time of uncertainty and misinformation. “The Red Cards make it really easy to understand what people’s rights are,” she says.
Beyond providing information, Torres stresses the importance of fostering a supportive environment. “It’s all of our jobs to make this a welcoming place,” says Torres, emphasizing students take responsibility for the atmosphere they create. While fear and anxiety are prevalent, Torres remains hopeful. “We are putting out the right message, UTLA, the teachers, and everybody else,” she says.
As the political climate intensifies, resources like the Red Card help ensure that those at risk understand their rights and have the tools to protect themselves. Yet, some worry that such actions could hurt the district’s relationship with federal agencies, making it harder for them to work together on other important issues. A report from The Hill highlights that the unprecedented demand for the Red Cards has led the Immigrant Legal Resource Center to temporarily suspend its program allowing nonprofits to access the cards. (thehill.com)
