On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, I participated with some members of Tsuru for Solidarity and others in lobbying some of the California State Senators on the HOME Act (AB1306).  The HOME Act (Harmonizing Our Measures for Equality) was authored by Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo (East Los Angeles).

It was a welcoming experience to see dedicated young people and to hear from

individuals telling their stories upon their release from incarceration.  Many came to Sacramento from Southern California, Central Valley, and the Bay area.  The lobbying individuals shared their reasons why they supported the HOME Act with compassion.

The HOME Act, if passed, will cease the practice of staff members of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) transferring immigrants and refugees released from prisons to the Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE).  The immigrants and refugees who have served their

time in prison, and were released will not have to be in the custody of ICE.  Upon their release, they should be allowed to be reunited with their families.

I support the Tsuru for Solidarity in their work to see that the immigrants, asylees, and refugee families are together under the authority of ICE.  And that individuals previously incarcerated are reunited with their families instead of being transferred to ICE.  I also support the city and county jail system stopping the practice of ICE using their facilities.

In 2021, I participated with Tsuru for Solidarity in support of the VISION Act (similar to the HOME Act) at the State Capitol.  Unfortunately, the VISION Act failed.  One of the reasons, I believe, was because the Act was heavily opposed by law enforcement organizations.  It is my understanding that the HOME Act does not have any opposing organizations.

In another event, we rallied in support of the Yuba County Jail to stop allowing the ICE to use their facility to house people in their custody.  Earlier this year, we gathered to celebrate the closing of the Yuba County Jail.

I support the Tsuru for Solidarity (along with many, many organizations) that keep the immigrants, asylees, and refugee families together.  

Hach Yasumura

Sacramento, California