Intro
On January 21, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rescinded a long-standing policy that protected “sensitive locations” from immigration enforcement actions. A new directive, titled 11072.3 Civil Immigration Enforcement Actions Inside Courthouses, permits ICE agents to conduct raids in previously protected areas, such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
Protests have erupted throughout the nation, especially in Los Angeles, California – a “sanctuary city” known for its policies that protect undocumented immigrants. In response to this, President Donald Trump deployed 4000 National Guard members and 700 Marines to aid ICE in quelling the demonstrations. He is also threatening to majorly defund California if Governor Gavin Newsom does not comply with federal immigration demands – a tactic often referred to as “political extortion”.
These actions are a direct threat to the safety, rights, and civil liberties of immigrant communities and Bay Area Muslims.
ICE Militarization Throughout California
Dressed in tactical military-style gear and armed with rubber bullets, ICE has detained over 50,000 people, with 43.7% having no criminal record. Their strategies have become both aggressive and deceptive, as agents now use ruses to identify and arrest their targets, luring individuals into public spaces or gaining permission to enter their homes. Other tactics include surveillance, use of force in places of worship, and collateral arrests (arresting someone who was not an intended target).
On June 6, protesters in Los Angeles were met with tear gas, rubber bullets, and riot shields. This violent escalation sets a concerning precedent for other California sanctuary jurisdictions, including San Francisco and Oakland. Both cities have large immigrant and Muslim populations with strong advocacy networks. Their public stance may make them targets for similar federal responses.
Trump Threatens Funding Cuts
The administration threatened to withdraw funding from California unless state officials agreed to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Such demands include ending sanctuary policies and providing ICE access to local databases. This threat would compromise essential functions of the state, including healthcare, education, and transportation.
Governor Gavin Newsom responded with public opposition. As home to one of the largest immigration populations in the country, California has the constitutional right and legal autonomy to protect all of its residents.
MAA Policy Perspective
As a faith-rooted organization, Muslim American Alliance affirms the inherent dignity of every human being. We uphold the dual importance of compassion and the rule of law in shaping immigration policy. Immigration enforcement must reflect the shared moral values of our diverse society: protecting families, safeguarding due process, and promoting national security without instilling fear through excessive force.
Muslim American Alliance opposes heavy-handed and discriminatory enforcement approaches. The use of militarized force in civilian spaces, such as homes and schools, contradicts the principles of religious liberty and civil protection. Instead, we advocate for immigration policies that are consistent with the Constitution and guided by moral responsibility.
Conclusion
As a Bay Area resident, you can call or email your local elected official and urge them to protect our civil rights. Public statements, city council resolutions, and legislative advocacy can establish clear boundaries for cooperation with DHS.
The presence of armed ICE agents near schools, hospitals, and places of worship only fosters fear. Militarized immigration enforcement undermines the democratic foundation of our country and weakens trust within our communities.