Residents of Fullerton’s Latino community gathered at the CSUF Center for Healthy Neighborhoods (Don Castro Center) on Monday, February 3 to talk about their worries regarding immigration policies under President Trump. The event aimed to address fears surrounding mass deportations and the community’s trust in local law enforcement.

Egleth Nuncci, Community Liason for the Center for Healthy Neighborhoods said, “The community requested to add information about immigration and procedures in regards to students in the school district and involvement of the police department concerning immigration status. They needed reassurance and clarification of how the police protect the community and interact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.”

Fullerton Police Chief Jon Radus reassured attendees that local police policies have not changed. “California law prevents us from acting as immigration agents,” he said, adding that their focus is on community safety rather than immigration enforcement.

Fullerton School District Superintendent Bob Pletka explained that schools do not keep track of student’s immigration status, so they cannot share that information with law enforcement.

Jose Serrano from the Orange County Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs* confirmed that county resources, including food assistance programs, are still available to those in need. However, many attendees expressed their concerns about deportation, with nearly everyone raising their hands when asked if they felt fear about it.

Radus addressed questions about whether police can ask about immigration status during traffic stops, emphasizing that this is against the police department’s policy. He also encouraged those facing intimidation related to their immigration status to report it, as this is illegal.

Despite reassurances from officials, many attendees were hesitant to share their names, reflecting the fear in the community. Radus urged people to report crimes they witnessed or experienced, assuring them that their information would not be shared with immigration authorities.

The current immigration policies have affected trust in the community, making it harder for residents to feel safe. The Center for Healthy Neighborhoods continues to support immigrants and their families, many of whom face challenges and live below the federal poverty line.

CalOptima also gave a presentation to inform the community and sign people up for health benefits.

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• Jose earned his bachelor’s degrees in political science and Chicana/o studies from the University of California, Los Angeles. He is also fully accredited by the Office of Legal Access Programs, under the Department of Justice, to represent individuals going before the immigration court and the Board of Immigration Appeals.