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No matter what anyone says—or what the headlines may suggest—Los Angeles is a Beloved Community. A city of doers, rooted in resilience and shaped by generations of migrants, families, and everyday people who have often worked across communities to look out for one another. From the outpouring of support shown after the recent wildfires to coalition-led efforts to expand access to affordable housing, jobs, and quality education, Los Angeles thrives because of its people—because we believe in showing up for each other.
At St. Joseph Center, we were founded nearly 50 years ago by two Sisters who applied their knowledge of social justice and bilingual skills to uplift immigrant families in Venice, California. These nuns acted on a deep belief: we belong to one another and must uplift our dear neighbor. That belief still guides us today.
As a values-driven organization rooted in justice, truth, and the power of Beloved Community, we know firsthand the importance of community leadership and collective action. We believe it is a continuum of care—not punishment—that will ensure everyone has a place to call home. We believe that everyone, regardless of their status, wealth, or background, deserves to live in a community where they can thrive.
We are deeply concerned by the recent immigration enforcement activities across Southern California, which have disrupted lives, spread fear, and inflicted trauma on families who are essential to the fabric of our city. Many immigrants facing this threat are also navigating housing insecurity, homelessness, mental health challenges, and behavioral health needs—conditions that make them even more vulnerable. These individuals are not statistics; they are parents, workers, students, and caregivers. They are our neighbors.
We uplift and support all those who are peacefully standing for justice, and we affirm that protest is not just a constitutional right—it is an act of moral courage. In moments of fear and uncertainty, these actions remind us of our collective strength and our shared liberation.
As writer James Baldwin once said, “If they take you in the morning, they will be coming for us at night.” May we take that as a call to stand shoulder to shoulder, to see each other more clearly, and to deepen our commitment to building a community rooted in dignity, compassion, and courage.
Let us use this moment to reaffirm our commitment to each other and to Los Angeles as a Beloved Community.
In Community,
Dr. Ryan J. Smith
President and CEO
St. Joseph Center
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