Elections Results + Fundraiser Recap
Turning Challenge Into Action: Building Power and Protecting Our Communities
Dear Friends,
It has taken us a moment to find the right words to share with you. Like many of you, we’ve been processing the election results and coming to terms with the inevitable disruption and destabilization awaiting so many of our communities. However, while we’re still processing the implications of the incoming administration, many are starting to transform feelings of grief and confusion into collective action.
These elections serve as a stark reminder that we live in a state and a country where extremist forces still hold significant power, where qualified, compassionate leaders—especially Black women and women of color—are too often overlooked in favor of those who divide rather than unite, where corporate greed and power continue to be prioritized over people.
“Show Me Your Papers” Law Poised to Return
Indiana is poised to be among the first wave of states to return to and implement regressive policies that threaten our rights, safety, and livelihoods.
Indiana is no stranger to extreme anti-immigrant rights sentiments, as evidenced by its past and current legislation. Signed into law in 2011 by then Governor Mitch Daniels, Senate Enrolled Act 590 contained a “show me your papers” provision, which allowed law enforcement agents to ask for proof of legal status if the agent had “reasonable suspicion” the person was in the country unlawfully. Further, it “permitted local law enforcement officers to make warrantless arrests of people in possession of certain immigration-related documents.” While portions of the 2011 law were struck down as unconstitutional, Trump’s election ensures an aggressive return to these draconian laws.
Back Against White Nationalism in Our Own Backyard
Most recently, the Mike Braun-Micah Beckwith ticket proudly vocalized these extremist sentiments by proposing to “deport” legally authorized immigrants. Recently speaking on a Fort Wayne radio talk show, Beckwith stated Haitian immigrants were there to take over the town of Logansport, calling it an “invasion.” Beckwith’s message to those he deems are not assimilating to the “American way of life” is nearly identical to the messages displayed on the most recent wave of flyers distributed by the Trinity White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan (TWK KKK): “we are going to find you, and we’re going to remove you.” Without a doubt, this is a chilling attack on legal immigrants and families who have called Indiana home.
White nationalists emboldened by Beckwith and Trump’s rhetoric are wasting no time: the TWK KKK flyers found throughout Indiana these last few weeks are just the start. The flier reads in part: “LEAVE NOW… Mass Deportation January 20th, 2025. We need your HELP. Monitor & Track all Immigrants. REPORT THEM ALL.” One of their recent statements regarding the fliers reads in part: “We the people have voted for MASS DEPORTATIONS…Our next flier will read ‘You can run, but you can’t hide. Americans on GUARD! Coming soon, to cities near you.” The intent of the TKW KKK is clear: to instill fear and threaten vengeful aggression.
As our communities prepare for the onslaught from the State House and from far-right activists, we are calling on you to help us stand up and fight. To confront and counter what’s to come, we’ll need your support on all fronts.
Calling on all Progressive Hoosiers and Allies Alike
The Indiana Latino Democratic Caucus will continue year-round civic organizing aimed at building political power within our communities while supporting allied organizations that are prioritizing on-the-ground needs.
Beyond monetary support, we’ll need your energy, encouragement, and solidarity. The impressive turnout for INLDC’s inaugural fundraiser was a remarkable example of what can happen when we rally together. Despite feelings of confusion and disappointment after the election results, resilience, determination, grit, and energy dominated the night.
We had nearly 100 attendees who connected with leaders from across the state and heard from elected officials who reaffirmed their commitment to fighting for our rights.
That night, we raised over $10,000 to go towards our growth. Your generous contribution will allow us to grow our coalition of progressive Hoosier voices that will make a lasting difference in state and local politics.
It was a night that fueled and energized us. Now, we are ready to get back to work. Many of us were organizing 10 years ago, and we’ll continue organizing these next 10 years. Despite this setback, we pledge our commitment to fighting for the rights of the working class, immigrants, Latinos, and other marginalized communities.
Our work together has never been more essential. Now, more than ever, we must stand up, organize, and fight back against hate and discrimination. We know that the road ahead will be challenging. As you take time to grieve, process, and recharge, also prepare for the work that lies ahead, because our community’s future depends on it.
Take Action
Donate to INLDC: Our goal is to raise $25,000 before the end of the year. As a completely volunteer-led organization, your support enables us to defend Latino rights, combat discriminatory policies, and continue empowering our community here in Indiana.
Join in Physical Community: Find a community – whether it’s the INLDC, student-led initiatives, or other community organizations. Now is the time to come together.
Join or support organizations working directly with the immigrant community*
Protect Your Digital Safety: Trade out text messaging for an app like Signal or WhatsApp. If you don’t want your phone company hanging on to text messages and metadata, consider using an end-to-end encrypted messaging app.
Read Up On Your Rights: Visit our website or the ACLU to educate yourself on your rights.
Our community is resilient and strong. Now is the time to channel our frustration and uncertainty into meaningful action. Together, we can continue the fight for our rights, protect our community, and work toward the future we deserve.
In solidarity and strength,
The Indiana Latino Democratic Caucus (INLDC)
Resources
*2024 Non-exhaustive Non-Profit Organizations Working Directly with Immigrants in Indiana:
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