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# In Defense of Our Communities
- URL: https://www.panasd.org/defenseofourcommunities/
- Published: 2024-11-07T21:59:00.000Z
- Updated: 2025-10-03T01:20:51.000Z
- Author: Admin
- Tags: Sign-On Letter, #Migrated-1759451319173, #sqs, #Import 2025-10-02 17:28

Dear Friends,  
  
We have witnessed firsthand the cruelty of past policies targeting our communities, and we refuse to let such injustices resurface unchallenged. As we have done before, we will double down on our efforts to respond swiftly to any attempts to codify xenophobia, criminalize those seeking safety, or further endanger families. We will use every tool available—including litigation—to protect those forced to flee violence and persecution as they seek safety and belonging at our borders.   
  
At this moment, we hold the power to shape the response of our local community replacing expulsion with sanctuary and othering with belonging. I invite you to join our efforts to create a community of care providing free legal services, advancing a more inclusive democracy, organizing, and our historic effort to put power directly into the hands of refugee communities to develop RICH (Refugee and Immigrant Cultural Hub) —2.2 acres into a refuge of housing, services, and spaces for healing justice and honoring culture.  
  
We know that the road ahead will be challenging, and it’s going to take all of us to push forward and create a future that values all of us. With [**one click**](https://www.panasd.org/donate-to-pana), you can make a difference today.   
  
  
All care,

**Ramla Sahid**  
Executive Director  
Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA)  
Email: ramla@panasd.org