Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights

CHIRLA's Wise Up! Youth Education & Empowerment Program addresses educational and economic inequities faced by undocumented and mixed-status students who are traditionally left out of internship, advocacy, and economic opportunities due to their immigration status. Wise Up! connects youth to legal services, college access and career development opportunities, informs them about financial aid resources available to them regardless of status, and develops them as youth leaders advocating for long-term resources for their families and communities.

For years CHIRLA has helped mixed-status immigrants navigate uncertainty and inequities caused by the immigration system. To prepare for policy changes that may create pathways to legalization, we will expand our community education and legal services to inform, legally advise, and empower immigrants in LA so they can live free from fear. CHIRLA co-chairs a national effort that is building a case management and legal infrastructure system to help immigrants stay in their community. This project will be our local effort called Ready to Stay LA.

The Covid-19 crisis has exposed what we have known for decades: millions of immigrants and mixed-status families are among the most vulnerable in our community. Although they are essential workers that continue to work in our ICUs, drive delivery trucks, and feed us from the farm fields, they are left behind in this emergency. CHIRLA needs support to be a life line for immigrants in this crisis. An LA2050 grant would allow us to advocate for the needs of 1 in 4 Angelinos while informing and legally protecting them.