Key Terms

Knowledge is power. Educate yourself and you’ll be ready to talk with others and find ways to plug in that feel right for you!

Civil Rights – The fundamental rights and freedoms that protect individuals from discrimination and ensure equal treatment under the law.

Systemic Racism – Policies, practices, and structures that create and maintain racial inequality in society.

Disenfranchisement – The denial of the right to vote or participate fully in the democratic process.

Voter Suppression – Tactics used to prevent or discourage certain groups, particularly marginalized communities, from voting.

Intersectionality – The concept that different forms of oppression (such as racism, sexism, and classism) are interconnected and must be addressed together.

Discrimination – Unfair or prejudicial treatment of individuals based on race, gender, disability, religion, or other characteristics.

Advocacy – Active efforts to influence policies, laws, and social attitudes to promote justice and equality.

Protest – A public demonstration expressing opposition to policies, laws, or social injustices.

Restorative Justice – A system of justice focused on repairing harm, promoting accountability, and restoring communities rather than just punishment.

Equity vs. Equality – Equality means treating everyone the same, while equity ensures people receive the specific resources and opportunities they need to reach fairness.

There’s power in unity—every effort matters! Whether you have a little time or a lot, your support makes a difference. Finding it difficult to keep track of what’s happening? Find watchdog information regarding upcoming legislation.

Volunteer or donate to immigrant rights organizations

• Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): A national nonprofit organization dedicated to working with and educating immigrants, community organizations, and the legal sector to build a democratic society that values the rights of all people.

  Website: ilrc.org

  Donate: ilrc.org/donate-now

• ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties: Focuses on defending civil liberties, including immigrant rights, by challenging policies that infringe upon individual freedoms and advocating for policy reforms.

  Website: aclusandiego.org

  Donate: aclusandiego.org/donate

  Volunteer: aclusandiego.org/volunteer

• Border Angels: A San Diego-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for human rights, humane immigration reform, and social justice, with a focus on the U.S.-Mexico border.

  Website: borderangels.org

  Donate: borderangels.org/donate

  Volunteer: borderangels.org/volunteer

• San Diego Rapid Response Network: A coalition of human rights and service organizations, attorneys, and community leaders dedicated to aiding immigrants and their families, particularly in response to increased immigration enforcement and anticipated mass deportations.

  Website: rapidresponsesd.org