Workshop Overview

On May 8th, 2024, the Addressing Disaster Disparities in Migrant Communities Workshop brought together civil society actors from across California to share their perspectives and experiences of how climate-induced disasters are affecting undocumented migrants. The workshop was hosted by Dr. Michael Méndez and Dr. Belinda Campos from UC Irvine, and generously funded by the UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Institute’s Diversity in Academia Award. The event was held at the Beckman Center of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine. In attendance were nearly 50 key stakeholders from community-based organizations (CBOs), philanthropic foundations, academic institutions, government agencies, and federal, state, and local policymakers. CBO participants represented migrant-serving organizations from across California that focus on various issues including immigration rights, farmworker labor, social services, health, and education. The goal of the workshop was to create a space for these diverse stakeholders to learn from one another, build connections, and begin to develop a path forward to address disaster disparities in undocumented communities.

Throughout the course of the workshop, stakeholder participants raised several themes that highlighted the hardships posed by disaster disparities. Multiple participants discussed the crucial role of community-based organizations (CBOs) in disaster response and recovery, emphasizing their unique ability to address the specific needs of undocumented migrants and marginalized communities. Conversations underscored the importance of language justice, noting how culturally and linguistically relevant communication can significantly improve access to mental health resources and other emergency support during disasters. Participants also critiqued the limitations of current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and state policies, advocating for more inclusive and culturally competent approaches. The workshop concluded with a call to substantively involve communities and CBOs in research and policymaking processes to ensure that solutions are grounded in lived experiences and truly address the needs of the most marginalized and stigmatized populations impacted by disasters.

Key Takeaways

The workshop underscored the pivotal role of CBOs in disaster response and recovery, especially within migrant and undocumented communities. Due to their community connections and trust built over time, CBOs are often the first responders and primary support systems—bridging gaps that government agencies frequently overlook. Their involvement is crucial in ensuring that disaster aid reaches those who need it most, but this responsibility should not fall solely on these organizations.

Current programs and policies often fall short in supporting migrant communities, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive approach that values and incorporates the on-the-ground insights and efforts of CBOs. The limitations of FEMA and state policies were another key focus of the discussions. These policies often fail to address the specific needs of migrant and marginalized groups, leaving significant gaps in disaster response and recovery efforts. Participants highlighted the need for policy reforms that recognize and support the unique challenges faced by these communities. This includes providing better resources and training for government staff to understand and address the needs of diverse populations, as well as expanding aid eligibility to be more inclusive of migrant communities.

Language justice emerged as another critical factor in addressing disaster disparities for undocumented migrants. Participants stressed the necessity of using culturally relevant terminology and communication methods that resonate with diverse communities. This involves not only translating materials but also understanding and incorporating the cultural nuances of language used by different populations. Effective communication is not just about language proficiency but also about cultural competence, ensuring that disaster response efforts are accessible and meaningful to all affected groups.

Finally, the importance of involving communities and CBOs in research and policy development was a recurring theme throughout the workshop. Participants emphasized that policies and research must be informed by the lived experiences of those directly affected by disasters. Involving CBOs and community members from the outset ensures that their voices and insights shape more effective and equitable disaster response strategies. Genuine partnerships and collaboration with migrant communities can lead to more tailored and impactful policies, ultimately fostering greater resilience and support for all individuals, regardless of immigration status.

The next steps involve convening a policy briefing in Sacramento and engaging key legislative and gubernatorial stakeholders to translate insights into actionable policies. Additionally, there is a plan to commission a statewide and national poll survey of likely voters to gauge public opinion on increased protections for undocumented migrants during extreme weather events and other disasters. These initiatives aim to build broader support and drive  changes that address the critical needs highlighted during the workshop, ensuring more inclusive and effective disaster response strategies

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