We are the Pulse: The Community ICE Can't Silence

As Gen Z Latinos, we’re used to being told where we don’t belong.

We see it in policies that treat undocumented families like threats. We hear it in headlines that reduce our communities to statistics. But who are we really? We are builders, caretakers, creators, and connectors. Especially now, we must reclaim the mic.

We’re not just showing up to protest—we’re showing up to remind this country that immigrant communities don’t “burden” America. We build it.

Our Roots Are Everywhere

Our families are woven into the American economy. Immigrants, documented or not, contribute billions in taxes each year. In cities like Los Angeles, Houston, and New York, entire industries rely on immigrant labor: food, health care, construction, education, media.

Let’s be clear: without immigrants, the U.S. doesn’t run.

And it’s not just labor. It’s culture. Music. Fashion. Literature. The ideas and energy of immigrant youth fuel TikTok trends, launch brands, inspire political movements. Our influence is felt not just at protests but in classrooms, businesses, and ballot boxes.

Untold Stories

In June 2025, a group of Latina nurses in Texas organized free pop-up clinics for communities scared to visit hospitals due to ICE raids. 

In San Diego, teens from immigrant families launched an app that alerts neighborhoods about ICE activity in real time. 

In Syracuse, students recently held a bilingual Know Your Rights training for local families.

These aren’t just reactions—they’re innovations. Acts of leadership. And they’re happening everywhere.

We Don’t Just Resist—We Rebuild

When we say “ICE pa’ fuera” we’re not just protesting. We’re protecting. Our fight is not rooted in hateful, but hopeful for safer neighborhoods, justice in immigration courts, and country that finally matches its actions to its ideals. Even in the face of fear, we lead with pride. And that is our greatest power.

You can’t love the culture and not support the people.