12 November, 2025

Diana Pinto – Executive Director, South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (SC LAMP)

SC LAMP is a co-sponsored ministry of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.

Since June, the ICE raids on our community have been devastating – bringing fear, stress, and uncertainty. Families we serve at South Central LAMP often share how these raids heighten their sense of vulnerability. Mothers worry about leaving their homes, children absorb the anxiety of their parents, and basic needs like food and healthcare become harder to access. Yet, we are determined to resist through our truth-telling.

These raids highlight the deep flaws in our immigration system. There is no simple “line” to citizenship. Pathways are shaped by political and corporate interests, often privileging specialized workers, while millions of hardworking immigrants—many of whom pay taxes year after year—remain excluded. At a recent press conference, Gabriel, a farmworker, shared proof of 19 years of paying taxes in hopes of one day becoming a citizen. His story mirrors the experiences of many of our families, who contribute significantly yet continue to be criminalized.

At South Central LAMP, we see firsthand how these systemic injustices weigh on women and children. Our programs—family literacy, early childhood education, ESL, and advocacy—become safe spaces where families can learn, heal, and find community. We empower mothers to become confident in their voices and their rights, even when the system tells them otherwise.

We still hold hope in America, but hope must be paired with truth. Real change requires action—educating ourselves, voting with integrity, supporting immigrant-led groups, and standing with organizations like South Central LAMP. Together, we can resist fear, uplift families, and create the change our community needs.