JMC Responds to Heightened Immigration Enforcement with Renewed Faith-Rooted Advocacy

U.S. Senator Adam Schiff echoes concern over civil rights and immigrant safety

Reply from Senator Adam Schiff.

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Los Angeles, CA – In the wake of escalating immigration enforcement activities across Southern California and increasing fear among immigrant families, the Jesse Miranda Center (JMC) has renewed its public call to stand on behalf of “the least of these,” as their faith-rooted mission demands. Recent events have sparked moral urgency across California’s Latino faith communities.

The JMC stands unequivocally against the current tactics of indiscriminate raids, masked enforcement officers, and courthouse detainments that continue to erode trust, safety, and dignity in immigrant neighborhoods.

“We believe there is a moral obligation for people of faith to reject unjust enforcement and instead advocate for real, accessible immigration reform,” said Pastor Jack Miranda, Executive Director of the Jesse Miranda Center. “We are not a church, but we are faith-rooted—and our actions are driven by a higher call to justice, compassion, and advocacy.”

In affirmation of these efforts, U.S. Senator Adam B. Schiff responded to the Center's concerns with a powerful statement condemning the lawless federal actions. In his letter to the JMC, Senator Schiff described the use of the California National Guard and active-duty U.S. Marines as “brazen” and “meant to inflame tensions, sow chaos, and escalate the situation.” He criticized the administration’s failure to protect immigrant families and its use of military resources against peaceful protestors and vulnerable communities.

Senator Schiff added, “We must ensure that the U.S. immigration system reflects our nation’s core values,” expressing support for pathways to citizenship and legislative protections for Dreamers, caregivers, and long-term immigrants.

From Protest to Prayer: Community Action and Events

As part of its advocacy work, JMC continues to mobilize the Latino faith community through resources, workshops, and public prayer gatherings. The organization provides Know Your Rights cards, coordinates with immigration attorneys, and partners with churches for legal aid and economic development workshops.

To further engage and unite the community, JMC is proud to announce a statewide series of Hispanic Heritage Month Prayer Breakfasts. Originally established in 1989 by President George H. W. Bush, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the cultural impact and growing influence of the Latinx community. This federally designated celebration runs from September 15th to October 15th and will be honored through events taking place across the state, including:

• Orange County – September 19, Vanguard University

• Inland Empire/Riverside – September 26

• Fresno – October 9

• Kern County (Bakersfield) – October 10

• Los Angeles (in partnership with Restore LA) – September 24

• LABI College, La Puente – September 15 (Creation Care & Community Development Kickoff)

These events will honor culture, uplift Latino voices, and foster collaboration across denominational and cultural lines. Sponsors such as Citizens Business Bank and Café de Olla have pledged support, exemplifying the private-public partnerships JMC continues to cultivate.

Faith in Motion

Through all its actions—whether in the courtroom, the streets, or community halls—JMC’s mission remains focused on amplifying the voices of the marginalized, equipping communities with tools for resilience, and holding power accountable through truth, transparency, and faith-rooted advocacy.

To stay informed or support these efforts, visit: www.mirandacenter.org

The Jesse Miranda Center Advocacy. Community. Faith in Motion.