California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls Statement on the Ongoing Situation in Los Angeles 

(SACRAMENTO, CA) June 9, 2025 – Over the weekend, we witnessed a heartbreaking escalation of tensions in Los Angeles and an overreach by the federal government as the administration launched raids and sweeps of immigrant communities nationwide. The move to deploy the National Guard against protesters who came together in Los Angeles to fight for their neighbors and the safety of their communities is cruel and it is dangerous.

We stand firmly against the unnecessary escalation of tensions by ICE and the National Guard against working people, labor leaders, and families, whose aggressive tactics tear families apart and instill fear in our neighborhoods. Immigrants have always been the backbone of this nation, contributing to our communities, economy, and cultural richness.

This action by the federal government is an alarming abuse of power, intended to create chaos and instill fear. Rather than militarizing our communities, we must work together to achieve humane immigration policies that uphold dignity, justice, and compassion for the nearly 11 million immigrant families working hard to achieve the American Dream in California. Targeting vulnerable populations does not make any of us safer—it only deepens division and suffering.

The Commission fully supports Governor Newsom, who is denouncing the federal administration’s decision to federalize the California National Guard and has encouraged protesters to speak out peacefully. We call on our leaders to prioritize all California communities and reject fearmongering, protect immigrant rights, keep families together, respect the right to due process for all people, and pursue solutions rooted in fairness and solidarity.

 Everyone deserves safety, respect, and the chance to build a better life.

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About the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls

For 60 years, the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls has identified and worked to eliminate inequities in state laws, practices, and conditions that affect California’s women and girls. Established as a state agency with 17 appointed commissioners in 1965, the Commission regularly assesses gender equity in health, safety, employment, education, and equal representation in the military and the media. The Commission provides leadership through research, policy and program development, education, outreach and collaboration, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. women.ca.gov