By Zackary Yen, 2025 CLA Intern
Since joining CAUSE, I have spent a significant amount of my time getting involved in my community. Whether attending meditation events with the CAUSE cohort or mural unveilings with my supervisor from my host office, each community event has revealed new perspectives and lessons. As an intern in the Office of State Senator Perez amid the recent immigration crackdowns, I have had the opportunity to witness the immigration hearing of a recent detainee.
A week before I began my internship at my host office, federal immigration authorities detained six people in front of a bus stop on Orange Grove Boulevard. Weeks after this detainment, I had the opportunity to witness the hearing of one of the detainees. While the staff members in my host office and I watched the legal proceedings unfold, it was terrifying seeing the detainee face the possibility of deportation. When looking at the attendees in the meeting, however, I was surprised to see the tremendous support the detainee received at the hearing. Dozens of community leaders (including State Senator Perez), community members, and family members attended the meeting to show support for him.
By the end of the meeting, the judge ruled that the detainee could be released from detention and return home to his family. When I reflect on this day, I think of how in a moment of fear and apprehension, my community continues to be resilient and compassionate. This story serves as a reminder that despite being in a period of uncertainty, our community can stand together, support each other, and fight back. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to witness my district’s resilience and humanity during this time. As I continue working closely within my community for the rest of the summer and beyond, I hope to ground myself in these values.
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not reflect the views or positions of CAUSE or the CAUSE network.
The CAUSE Leadership Academy (CLA) for students is a nine-week, paid, internship program that prepares college undergraduates to lead and advocate for the Asian Pacific Islander community on their campuses and beyond.