Immigrants Rising’s Statement on the Erroneous Statement from the White House
On September 25, 2026, the White House published a statement naming Immigrants Rising and incorrectly stating that we received federal funding through the Department of Education’s Special Programs for Migrant Students to support mental health programming for undocumented people. Immigrants Rising has never received federal funding. The statement also mischaracterized our work in the course of making its broader argument about government spending.
This is now the third direct attack from this federal administration against Immigrants Rising.
We reject attempts to portray our work—providing people with information, support, and opportunities to pursue their education, careers, and well-being—as harmful. For 20 years, Immigrants Rising has worked alongside immigrant communities to expand opportunity and help people build stronger futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Our work is grounded in a simple value: every person deserves to be treated with dignity and to have the opportunity to thrive. That value is deeply rooted in California’s and our nation’s highest ideals. We will continue responding to the needs of immigrant communities, advancing policies and practices that expand opportunity, and affirming the strengths, contributions, and humanity of immigrants—regardless of immigration status.
We are deeply grateful to every philanthropic and community partner who has stood with us against these baseless targeted attacks. Now, more than ever, investing in immigrants’ economic mobility pathways must be a priority. The federal government is committed to hindering immigrant prosperity, and we must reject its harmful actions and deliberate misinformation.
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Founded in 2006, Immigrants Rising transforms individuals and fuels broader changes. With resources and support, undocumented young people are able to get an education, pursue careers, and build a brighter future for themselves and their community. Our collective power is helping our nation edge closer to fulfilling its ideal as a land of opportunity and access for all.
