Dear LA Civil Rights Family,

This summer, many Angelenos are facing more than just rising temperatures. Immigration enforcement actions have fueled fear and uncertainty, leaving families feeling vulnerable and placing a heavy toll on mental and emotional well-being. If you or your loved ones are struggling, please know, the City of Los Angeles stands with you— you are not alone.

As we observe National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month and Disability Pride Month this July, we are reminded of the importance of mental health, especially in times of fear, grief, and instability. Support is available and healing is possible.

This month, we also honor Muslim American Heritage Month and welcome the Islamic New Year. These are moments for reflection and renewal, rooted in faith and community. We celebrate the many contributions of Muslim Angelenos, whose strength and service help shape our city.  The LA Civil Rights Department wishes all who observe a peaceful and meaningful Muharram.

Last week we acknowledged Independence Day and were reminded of how the promise of freedom remains unfulfilled for many. We know, justice is a continuous journey, which demands our action, commitment, and solidarity. We encourage all Angelenos to Know Your Rights and to share our resources with to help empower your families, friends, and neighbors. To those struggling in any aspect of these unprecedented times, we see you, lift you, and stand with you. Together, we are in solidarity with the best of LA - and an LA FOR ALL!

Keep the faith and keep the fight,



Capri Maddox, Esq.

Executive Director

LA Civil Rights Department

New Date: Just Say Hello Launch

Image Description: Flyer for the Just Say Hello campaign launch event now happening on July 30.

We are excited to share the new date for our Just Say Hello campaign launch event —Wednesday, July 30, 2025. This campaign is about more than a greeting. It is a citywide invitation to connect, to lead with kindness, and to remind one another a simple "hello" can open the door to understanding.

Until then, keep an eye out for Just Say Hello across the city on digital bus stops, LA Sanitation trucks, and LAX billboards.

Want to be part of the movement? Click here ➡️ Just Say Hello Selfie Submission to upload your selfie and you might be featured as part of the campaign. Help us spread the message across Los Angeles!

Homebuyer Virtual Seminar

Image Description: Flyer for a free virtual homeownership seminar happening July 19.

Owning a home in Los Angeles may feel out of reach, but with the right tools and support, it is possible. Join us on Saturday, July 19, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a free virtual seminar hosted by LA Civil Rights and LA Partners in Homeownership.

You will learn how to qualify for a loan, build your credit profile, and access government programs offering down payment assistance, help with closing costs, and more. Whether you are just getting started or already exploring your options, this seminar is designed to meet you where you are.

Participants will also receive a personalized action plan, a certificate of completion, and clear next steps toward homeownership.

Solidarity with our Immigrant Communities

Image Description: Multilingual graphic promoting Know Your Rights resources.

We understand these are uncertain times for many of our immigrant communities. No one should have to live in fear. Being prepared is one way to protect your loved ones and move forward with strength.

Visit bit.ly/LA-KYR25 to access our Know Your Rights guide, available in Armenian, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, and Tagalog. This guide connects you to trusted local organizations ready to help you:

✅ Create a family preparedness plan

✅ Access free or low-cost legal services

✅ Share concerns related to detainment or deportation

Take a moment to read it, save it, and pass it along.

Stay Cool, LA

Extreme heat is the primary climate hazard for LA. It is sending more people to the hospital, and causing more deaths, than any other climate hazard in Los Angeles. While the hazards of heat waves affect everyone, extreme heat has a disproportionate impact on low-income residents, older adults, and communities of color, who face the greatest vulnerability to extreme heat-related illness and death due to the cumulative burdens of pre-existing health conditions, excessive air pollution, and seasonal smoke.

✅ Sign up online for NotifyLA extreme heat alerts.

✅ Check the CoolSpotsLA app or call 311 for cooling resources including pools, parks, libraries and hydration stations at Climate4LA.org/CoolSpotsLA

✅ Visit Climate4LA.org/Heat for more information.

ICE raids in Los Angeles leave immigrants afraid to report discrimination

Los Angeles Daily News -- ICE raids in Los Angeles are spreading fear among immigrants, driving them underground and reducing discrimination complaints even as legal aid groups see surging demand.