A group of 42 migrants, including children, arrived by bus at Los Angeles’ Union Station on Wednesday, sent from Texas as part of a broader effort by Republican Governor Greg Abbott to relocate asylum-seekers to Democratic-run states. The move, criticized by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass as a “despicable stunt,” saw the migrants dropped off after a grueling 23-hour journey without food or water. City agencies and local charities stepped in to provide immediate assistance, offering meals, shelter, and legal support.
“These individuals are migrants who have been allowed into the U.S. due to credible fears but have not yet received asylum,” said Jorge Mario Cabrera of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights. Many of the migrants originated from Latin American countries such as Honduras and Venezuela. One traveler even had an immigration appointment in New York, highlighting the complexity of their situations.
Political Tensions Escalate Over Migrant Relocations
Mayor Bass, prepared for such an event, reaffirmed her stance that Los Angeles would not be intimidated by these political actions. “Los Angeles is not motivated by hate or fear and will not be swayed by petty politicians playing with human lives,” Bass stated, calling out Republican governors for using migrants as political tools. She underscored that the city would continue to provide support and care for the arriving individuals.
Governor Abbott defended his decision, arguing that Texas border communities are overwhelmed due to what he called President Biden’s failure to secure the U.S.-Mexico border. He added that California’s self-designation as a “sanctuary state” made it an ideal destination for relocated migrants. This recent arrival mirrors a similar effort last week when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis flew migrants from border states to Sacramento, fueling a wider political debate. The migrants in Los Angeles are now receiving aid at St. Anthony’s Croatian Catholic Church.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/california/articles/2023-06-14/migrants-bussed-from-texas-to-los-angeles-in-move-mayor-calls-despicable-stunt
