Standing Together in Challenging Times
Dear Friends and Community,
As we begin this year together, my heart is with all those affected by the devastating fires in Southern California and with our ACH communities in the region. I know that many of our members are working tirelessly to support displaced residents, workers, and families whose lives have been upended. I have personally reached out to our ACH partners involved in this work, and I want to emphasize that we stand with you. In our January newsletter, you’ll find a dedicated section with fire recovery resources and resilience-building tools to support your communities.
This week also brings the inauguration of a new administration. In a recent newsletter, we discussed the vulnerabilities many communities face with impending changes in federal policy. Now, as new executive orders take shape—affecting birthright citizenship, gender protections, diversity in federal programs, key climate initiatives, and health policies impacting future pandemic response—it is clear that states and communities will be called upon to do even more to identify and address evolving local needs. More than ever, we must stay vigilant, prepared, and committed to our shared vision of equity and well-being for all.
In anticipation of escalating federal actions targeting undocumented immigrants, our newsletter also includes critical immigration resources to help individuals and families understand their rights and access support. If you are aware of additional efforts or resources that could benefit our ACH network, please let us know so we can share them widely.
I know that the weight of these challenges can feel heavy. Yet, we have also just commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. Day—a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and collective action. As Dr. King wrote in his 1963 "Letter from a Birmingham Jail":
"Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."
Let us hold this truth close as we move forward, step by step, with hope, solidarity, and determination.
With your help, we will continue this important conversation in our upcoming gatherings, including our April convening, where we can come together to support one another and deepen our collective response.
Warmly,
Rea Pañares
Executive Director, CACHI