Community United in Peaceful Demonstrations Against Abusive Immigration Raids and the Targeting of Working Families

For Immediate Release: June 8, 2025 

Contact: Media@sirenimmigrantrights.org 

Community United in Peaceful Demonstrations Against Abusive Immigration Raids and the Targeting of Working Families 

Access online version of this press release HERE 

San Jose, CA — On Friday June 6, ICE agents launched aggressive raids throughout Los Angeles that triggered solidarity protests by the community. Over the weekend the Trump administration deployed members of the National Guard to stop the protests, defying California’s Governor. This alarming show of force was directed at peaceful community members calling for an end to ICE’s targeted raids and the forced separation and disappearances of working families. 

SIREN strongly condemns this authoritarian action and stands in solidarity with our community in Los Angeles who have a constitutional right to peacefully protest the raids that have sowed fear and terror across their communities.  These raids, orchestrated by federal agents, have torn working families apart and unleashed fear across our neighborhoods.  We are further outraged by the assault and arrest of David Huerta, SEIU California President (released on an appearance bond as of Monday afternoon, however with felony charges).  Many other colleagues from labor and immigrant advocacy movements have been arrested and SIREN demands their immediate release without condition.  

“This is a clear escalation and no community is safe,” said Huy Tran, Executive Director of Services, Immigrant Rights and Education Network (SIREN). “It is now clear that all communities must prepare for military-like ICE operations that seek to take over our neighborhoods and make people disappear right off the streets. This is unacceptable, and we stand with our sisters and brothers in Los Angeles and Paramount who sought to protect their homes and their neighbors from this tyranny.” 

The Constitution guarantees the right of due process to every individual who live in the United States, regardless of their citizenship status. The Department of Justice has trampled on due process by denying individuals access to legal representation and contact with their loved ones. Furthermore, this administration is aggressively utilizing anti-immigration rhetoric and are using recent public protests as a pretext to justify sweeping immigration enforcement measures that would fast track mass deportations, and set a dangerous precedent, targeting long-standing, law-abiding members of our communities.  

We call on our allies and people across the country to continue to raise their voices in opposition and mobilize to protect their communities from this abuse of power.  

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SIREN Condemns Trump’s Racist Travel Ban

 June 6, 2025 

San Jose, CA - President Trump has brought back and expanded his earlier travel bans, claiming national security reasons. The new ban blocks both immigrant and non-immigrant visas for people from countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, and others. It also restricts certain types of visas (such as tourist and student visas) for people from countries like Cuba, Venezuela, and Togo.  

 "This action is another example of how this Administration vilifies communities that do not look like the President,” said Huy Tran, SIREN’s Executive Director. “This Administration has permitted entry to the Tate Brothers, accused sex traffickers and rapists, and granted refugee status to wealthy Afrikaners who face no persecution, but claims that we should be afraid of people from Muslim and African nations. The President’s last FBI Director reported that white supremacy was the greatest terrorism threat in America. Instead of addressing this, the President seeks to isolate us from the world. This is not about national security; this is racism and Islamophobia.” 

While certain individuals are exempt from the new travel ban—including immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders, and those granted a national interest waiver—the policy disproportionately targets nationals from Muslim-majority and African countries. This ban, rooted in discriminatory and exclusionary motives, will prevent countless families from reuniting and pursuing safety and opportunity in the United States. Many of those affected are fleeing poverty, violence, and war, yet the administration’s response is marked by cruelty rather than compassion. 

The ban is scheduled to take effect at 12:01 AM on June 9. 

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SIREN is a nonprofit organization and a vehicle for low-income immigrants and refugees in California—to be their own agents for change. We do this through community education and organizing, leadership development, legal services, policy advocacy, and civic engagement.   

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Photo credit: HUY TRAN

SIREN Statement: Opposition to H.R. Bills Threatening Immigrant Rights

February 1, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A SIREN Statement - Opposition to Bills Threatening Immigrant Rights

San Jose, CA - In response to the recent legislative proposals aiming to expand penalties and criminalize immigrants seeking crucial family reunification and reintegration after serving their time, SIREN (Services, Immigrant Rights and Empowerment Network) strongly urges Members of Congress to reject these misguided initiatives.

The bills in question, namely H.R. 6678, 6679, 5585, and 6976, pose a significant threat to the well-being and rights of immigrant communities. SIREN calls upon Congress to stand against the political maneuvering embedded in these bills, which, rather than addressing genuine concerns, appear to be riding on the coattails of divisive political rhetoric.

One alarming aspect of these proposals is the removal of due process rights, undermining a fundamental pillar of justice that our country holds dear. Additionally, the duplication of existing laws under the guise of responding to current events raises questions about the true intent behind these legislative efforts.

It is disheartening to witness the appropriation of current events to cut and paste into laws, echoing a tactic reminiscent of past political campaigns. SIREN asserts that these bills do not align with the expectations of the House of Representatives in securing our nation.

We implore Members of Congress to prioritize fairness, justice, and the preservation of immigrant rights by voting NO on H.R. 6678, 6679, 5585, and 6976. SIREN remains committed to advocating for policies that uphold the principles of inclusivity, compassion, and respect for all members of our diverse society.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lourdes Medina, Advocacy and Communication Associate: Lourdes@sirenimmigrantrights.org

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SIREN Summer 2023 Newsletter Update

Dear SIREN Community, 

The summer of 2023 has ushered in a wave of change, growth, and renewed dedication at SIREN. We're excited to share some exciting developments with you. 

🏢 We've Moved! 🏢 As of September 1st, 2023, our new SIREN offices are now located at 1769 Park Ave. Ste. 200, San Jose CA 95126. We invite all our Bay Area leaders, community-based organizations, businesses, and clients to help us spread the word about our new address. Please stop by and say hello! Our doors are open from Monday to Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM. 

🌟 New Leadership and Transition 🌟 We are thrilled to introduce new community leaders who have joined our board of directors. Additionally, we have appointed an Interim Executive Director as we embark on this transition into the fall. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRANSITION LEADERSHIP TEAM here.

🤝 Meet Our Leadership Team 🤝 SIREN is now under the capable leadership of Interim Director Huy Tran and Interim Deputy Director Carmen Torres. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and dedication to our mission. Find the Interim Executive Director message here.

🚀 Thriving Programs and Services 🚀 Our Immigration Legal Service Program and Organizing team, both in the Bay Area and our Central Valley Office continue to thrive thanks to the relentless efforts of our dedicated staff. We remain committed to uplifting immigrant rights and advocating for the national support needed to include all 11 million individuals who have toiled and established roots in this country. 

🌎 Standing Strong for Our Mission 🌎 In the face of rising anti-immigrant policies and inhumane border practices, it is clear that our mission and vision are more critical than ever. We stand unwavering in our commitment to protect and serve migrants, ensuring they receive the respect and support they deserve. 

🤝 A Stronger San Jose Presence 🤝 With our new board members and the fresh energy they bring, we aim to amplify our presence in San Jose. Together, we will have a greater impact on advocating for the rights and protection of immigrants and refugees who call California their home. 

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for all. Stay tuned for more updates and events in the coming months!