(Picture reposted on Instagram by the @Sanjoaquinvalleytransperency.)
A Facebook post has been circulating on social media regarding potential deportation enforcement “volunteers” by members of the Kern County community.
The enforcement is dated to start on January 30th through January 22, 2026. It also mentions a location. The post also explains what volunteers should expect: “Announcing the first of many weekends of assisting ICE & CBP with open carry patriots at the ready, extra space for transporting more illegals, and delicious barbecue! Looking for a way to spend quality time with your family while making a real difference? Look no further! President Trump is calling on patriotic Kern locals to join forces with ICE and CBP in protecting our community. It's not just about securing borders—it's about building bonds, creating memories, and showing your love for this great nation and community.” The post continued to state that this was not a typical volunteer gig, but of an adventure.
“Families are encouraged to participate together, turning neighborhood safety into a family affair. You and your loved ones are out in the fresh air, working side by side to safeguard your community. It's a hands-on way to teach the next generation about responsibility, civic pride, and the importance of standing up for what's right in God's last democracy.”
Ana Reyes, a local resident of the city of Bakersfield, said that she was disgusted to see these social posts. “It is inhumane that these kinds of people really believe that immigrants who are simply here to work and provide a better life for their families are a serious threat,” she said. “ I come from immigrant parents. My mom did not sacrifice crossing the border three times just to be treated like trash. Instead of volunteering to ‘gather up the immigrants,’ they should go work in the fields since they're looking for jobs.”
If you need to know your rights, would like to report ICE activity or want to get involved in supporting immigrant communities, contact the Rapid Response Network of Kern by clicking here for more information.
If you or your loved one have been detained:
The Removal Defense Project of the United Farm Workers Foundation (UFWF) can help.
Removal Defense Project—United Farm Workers Foundation
Location: 238 18th Street, Suite 10, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: (661) 324-2500
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