We stand in solidarity with immigrant communities in Los Angeles—home to the largest population of Mexican-origin residents in the United States.

At the American Mexican Association (AMA-USA), we are proud to stand with communities of Mexican origin across Los Angeles and the United States. Our mission is to cultivate leadership, strengthen civic engagement, and fuel entrepreneurial success through transformative education and training programs. In times of uncertainty and challenge, we remain focused on uplifting voices, unlocking potential, and advancing the vital contributions of Mexican Americans to our nation’s progress.

Los Angeles County is home to more than 3.5 million residents of Mexican origin, representing the largest single ethnic community in the region (74% of the Hispanic/Latino population) and accounting for nearly 35% of the total county population (LA Almanac). Across the country, people of Mexican descent make up about 60% of the total Latino population in the United States (Pew Research Center)—a population that plays a critical role in every sector of American life, from education and health to small business and public service.

As an organization rooted in empowerment, we also believe in educating our communities on their rights. It is important to note that, under U.S. law, being undocumented is a civil violation—not a criminal offense (ACLU). This legal distinction matters. In fact,  innumerable studies demonstrate that immigrant communities are less likely to commit crimes than the US-born population. While the immigration system is complex and in need of reform, no individual should be mischaracterized as a criminal simply for their immigration status. Dignity, due process, and equal treatment under the law are foundational American principles.

We denounce all efforts—by government, law enforcement, or public officials—that aim to intimidate, divide, or erase our communities. We reject narratives that criminalize our people for seeking justice or for simply existing without documentation. No human being is illegal.

Our vision is a nation where Mexican American communities are fully represented, civically engaged, and leading across all sectors of society. This means creating opportunities for youth leadership, expanding access to civic education, and removing systemic barriers that prevent our communities from thriving.