A respected Samoan and Pacific community leader in California is warning that immigration raids are spreading fear through immigrant neighbourhoods in Los Angeles, United States. 

Papali'i Manumalo Ala’ilima said many families are afraid after more than 100 people were arrested by immigration officers in recent days.

The deportation of illegal immigrants is part of US President Donald Trump's move. It was revealed earlier this year that the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will deport 57 Samoans as the new American administration sticks to its promise of sending illegal immigrants back home, as listed in the non-detained docket. 

The US government has started a new part of its immigration plan, focusing on people who may be working without proper papers or remaining in the country after the expiry of their visas. Officers have been visiting businesses, schools, and even places of worship to find undocumented immigrants.

“This is something we have not seen before,” Papalii told ABC Radio Australia’s Pacific Beat. “It’s happening in so many places, outside schools, courthouses, workplaces, even churches. Families don’t know where it’s safe to go.”

Papalii is a community leader who works closely with families in areas like Compton and Paramount, where many Pacific people live. He said they are still trying to find out if any Pacific Islanders were taken in the raids.

To help his community, Papalii and other leaders have been holding “Know Your Rights” meetings. These are lessons that teach people how to protect themselves if they are approached by immigration officers.

“We tell people to carry their ID, take pictures of important documents, and remember, if ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) officers don’t have a warrant signed by a judge, you don’t have to let them into your home,” he explained.

He also said the way immigration officers are acting feels like a scare tactic. “They brought two big vans and lots of armed officers to arrest just two dishwashers,” he said, talking about a recent event in LA’s fashion district. “That’s not about safety, that’s about fear.”

Papalii believes this fear is stopping people from going to work or sending their children to school. “Some people are calling in sick. Others are keeping their kids at home. Some are even skipping important events, like graduations.”

He also said the timing of the raids happening during LA’s Pride Weekend, may be hurting queer and trans immigrants, especially those from the Pacific community. “There are people in our community who are both LGBTQ+ and immigrants. They face double the danger.”

Although some media outlets have called the protests in LA “riots,” Papaplii said most of the protests have been peaceful. “Yes, there are a few problems, but most people are marching peacefully. They are just standing up for their families and their rights.”

Papalii said he will continue working to protect his community and help them stay calm and informed. “We want our people to know they are not alone. We are here to help them stay safe, stay strong, and know their rights.”