Community Self Defense Coalition Marks One Year of Protecting Immigrant Communities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA – February 18, 2026 – The Community Self Defense Coalition (CSDC), a grassroots network of over 80 social justice organizations, is celebrating its one-year anniversary of providing support and advocacy for immigrants and migrants in Southern California. Formed in February 2025 in response to the Trump administration’s increased deportation efforts, the CSDC has rapidly become a vital force in protecting vulnerable communities.

From Formation to a Growing Network

The CSDC was initially established on February 13, 2025, by Unión del Barrio, Stop LAPD Spying, Centro CSO, and other organizations. At its inception, 50 groups joined the coalition with a shared mission: to ensure the safety and rights of all immigrants, regardless of their status. Over the past year, as federal immigration enforcement intensified, the coalition has expanded significantly, now encompassing groups from Ventura County to the US-Mexico border.

Responding to Increased Federal Enforcement

The summer of 2025 saw a surge in activity from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Border Patrol in Southern California, with thousands arrested. Federal agents conducted raids in parking lots, car washes, and immigrant communities, often detaining individuals based on ethnicity or language. This increased enforcement prompted a greater sense of urgency within the CSDC and fueled its growth. According to organizers, the coalition’s rapid response teams can now reach any location in Los Angeles County within 5 to 7 minutes, often faster than law enforcement.

Beyond Rapid Response: Building Community Support

Whereas rapid response to ICE and Border Patrol activity remains a core function, the CSDC has broadened its efforts to provide comprehensive support to affected communities. Volunteers conduct regular visits to individuals detained in immigration detention centers, providing essential items like sweaters, love notes, and medications, as well as connecting them with legal resources. Food distributions have also been organized to support families who fear going to grocery stores. The CSDC aims to create a “container of love and support” for neighborhoods in Los Angeles, a model that can be adapted for other cities.

The Role of MEChA and Indigenous Leadership

The CSDC’s work is deeply rooted in community organizing and self-determination. Katherine, a high school teacher and organizer with the CSDC, emphasizes the importance of involving students and youth in the movement. She noted the involvement of MEChA (Movimiento Estudantil Chicano de Aztlán), a Chicano student organization, in the coalition’s efforts. Organizers also highlighted the powerful role of indigenous women in resisting ICE and Border Patrol, recalling instances where their vocal opposition led to agents retreating. One such event occurred in Paramount and Compton on June 7, 2025, where a woman playing a drum from the sunroof of a car confronted federal agents during a raid.

Recent Tragedies and Escalating Violence

The past year has also been marked by tragedy and escalating violence. In January 2026, ICE agent Jonathan Ross fatally shot Renee Good, a community defense advocate, in Minneapolis. Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos was briefly detained by ICE, sparking widespread outrage. Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, was killed by federal agents in Minneapolis while intervening to protect legal observers. These incidents underscore the increasing risks faced by both community members and those who advocate for their rights.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, the CSDC remains committed to its mission. Organizers are encouraging community members to participate in rapid response trainings and to get involved in local networks. Katherine urges people to “honor the feelings that you have—the fear, the rage, the disgust—but also honor the love and the care that you have for the community, and channel that into righteous rage so that you can act.” The CSDC believes that collective action and community self-defense are essential to protecting immigrant communities and building a more just future.