FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2025
Contact:
Arianna Rosales, arianna@nipnlg.org
Washington, DC — In response to the inauguration of Donald Trump as President of the United States, Sirine Shebaya, Executive Director of the National Immigration Project, issued the following statement:
“We understand the fear that many in our community are feeling right now. As he steps into office today, Donald Trump has already signaled his intent to increase interior enforcement and detention, pursue mass deportations, further restrict access to asylum, and continue the hateful and xenophobic agenda of his last administration.
To our community members and partners: We want to assure you that we are ready to fight back. We have been here before, witnessed the boundlessness of our community power, and are prepared to push back with more strength than ever before.
As a leading advocate for immigrants' rights and with members across all 50 states, the National Immigration Project has been proactively strengthening its capacity to respond to potential attacks. With more staff and members than ever before, we are prepared to utilize every tool at our disposal – from aggressive litigation and community defense strategies, to resourcing and training up advocates and attorneys alike – we are equipped to fight with and for our communities. In order to support localities that have fewer resources but may be the first targets of increased enforcement, we have also established a new program to set up regional rapid response networks that will provide a solid framework to support local coordination.
Let us not forget: We keep each other safe, and community is our strongest tool. Now and always, the National Immigration Project remains steadfast in our commitment to fight alongside you for the rights and dignity of all people.”
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