On February 16, Senator Sasha Renee Perez, of Pasadena, introduced SB 1105, also known as the Protect California Rights Act during an event. The purpose of the legislation is to provide protection for California residents who observe actions taken by federal immigration agencies.
Essentially, the bill prohibits local and state law enforcement agencies from aiding federal agents in operations that involve racial or identity profiling, criminalization of speech, and/or the usage of military-grade weapons against Californians. SB 1105 also bars federal law enforcement from arresting Californians outside their authorized federal jurisdiction, except during declared emergencies and with the Governor’s consent.
“Let me be clear, the federal government is trying to intimidate people,” said Perez during the press conference. “But being a legal observer is not illegal. Documenting federal actions is not illegal. Speaking out against your government is not illegal.”
“Californians have rights, and it is our duty to protect them,” she added.
Perez was joined by Angie Vargas, a legal observer who shared her personal testimony about her experience with federal agents and local law enforcement.
“I was called to a Home Depot after community members reported immigration activity,” Vargas said. “While driving there, I came across what appeared to be a government vehicle, and it became clear it was immigration enforcement. I began documenting from a safe distance. I had a strong feeling I was going to be stopped. Within minutes, I was pulled over and approached by both Alhambra police officers and federal agents. A federal agent questioned my citizenship and accused me of impeding. I stand here today knowing I could have been Renee Good or Alex Pretti.”
Following Vargas, Jose Madera, director of the Pasadena Community Job Center and also a legal observer, shared his account.
“We were legally observing the movement of an alleged ICE agent. I was one of those legal observers,” Madera said. “The agent led us to the Pasadena Police Department, where Pasadena police officers stopped and questioned me at the request of the ICE agent. Moments later, I was arrested. The perception in the community was that local police were protecting this ICE agent, not protecting legal observers.”
“I love my community, and I am exercising my right to be a legal observer,” he continued. “This federal government is sending hate and terror into this community, and we do not need our local police department to participate in that.”
Hugo Soto Martinez, Los Angeles council member, was later introduced. In his remarks, Soto Martinez emphasized the importance of unity during these unprecedented times.
“I think in this moment when we are fighting against a fascist white nationalist government, we need every single person, institution, and government body, pushing in the same position,” said Soto Martinez.
As the debate over immigration enforcement intensifies, SB 1105 aims to prioritize the safety and rights of Californian residents. The bill seeks to clarify the boundaries between local and federal law enforcement and to ensure the rights to free speech, due process, and lawful observation are upheld throughout California.
