Statement on Federal Activity and Community Reassurance in Pasadena This past Sunday morning, we received and confirmed reports that officials from Federal Protective Services, a component of the Department of Homeland Security, were present in the City of Pasadena. While no enforcement actions were carried out within our city, their presence has had a powerful and traumatic impact-especially on our immigrant community.
Let's be clear: the continued immigration raids and reckless actions by the Federal administration in Los Angeles and across the country are not about public safety. These tactics are meant to provoke fear, intimidate communities, and expand presidential power beyond Constitutional limits.
These developments now unfold against an increasingly alarming backdrop: peaceful protests in defense of immigrant rights, our Constitution and American values; the unlawful federalization of National Guard troops over the objections of Governor Newsom; and the unwarranted deployment of active duty Marines to Southern California. Just this morning, yet another deeply troubling incident occurred when United States Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed and handcuffed at a press conference held by OHS Secretary Kristi Noem, despite clearly identifying himself as a U.S. Senator, while attempting to ask a question about the administration's ongoing mass deportation efforts. This is not only an egregious violation of the Senator's rights -it is an assault on transparency, accountability, and the core tenets of our democracy.
These actions do not make us safer-they heighten tensions, re-traumatize vulnerable communities, and threaten us all by eroding the rule of law.
At the same time, our community continues to recover from the trauma, grief, and disruption caused by the Eaton Fire. We recognize how these overlapping crises are compounding stress and fear, especially for our immigrant neighbors, both documented Meeting of: 6/23/2025
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and undocumented.
Let us be absolutely clear: in accordance with established City Policy, the Pasadena Police Department will not assist with or participate in the enforcement of federal civil immigration laws.
We will not allow our Pasadena—our home—to be a city under siege. Our community is stronger than fear, stronger than intimidation, and stronger than any attempt to divide us. We will not be baited by fear-based tactics. We will respond with unity, dignity, and unwavering resolve.
To everyone in our city—especially those who feel afraid or targeted—know this: you belong here. Pasadena remains steadfast in our commitment to the dignity, well-being, and safety of all our residents.
As you gather in peaceful protest to stand with our immigrant neighbors and uphold the most fundamental principles of due process and human rights, we stand with you.
Let us continue to show up with strength, compassion, and care for one another.
We will get through this—together.