IRVINE, Calif. (February 11, 2025) — University of California, Irvine School of Law’s Clinics have launched a workshop series for community members in partnership with El Centro Cultural de México in Santa Ana. Coordinated with the help of inaugural Santa Ana Legal Empowerment Attorney Sarah Beydoun (’23), the workshops aim to empower community members with critical knowledge about the law and their legal rights as they navigate a shifting policy landscape over the coming months and years.
The inaugural workshop took place on January 13, 2025, and was entitled “Preparing for Immigration Under Trump.” It was presented by Immigrant Rights Clinic Director and Professor Annie Lai and second-year law student Jose Lopez, drawing an audience of over 150 community members, organizers and community leaders. Topics addressed included protections under California law and how community members could prepare for encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as well as proactive steps families could take in the case of arrest and detention.
Upcoming Presentations
February 25, 2025 – Civil Rights Litigation Clinic Workshop on Police Accountability
March 18, 2025 – International Justice Clinic Workshop on Human Rights Advocacy at Home
“We are proud to partner with El Centro Cultural de México to share this vital information,” said Professor Annie Lai, who also serves as UC Irvine Law’s Co-Associate Dean for Experiential Education. “Now more than ever it is important for our students to be out in the community supporting those who feel under attack.”
The series is part of UC Irvine Law’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning and public service.
About the University of California, Irvine School of Law
The University of California, Irvine School of Law is a visionary law school that provides an innovative and comprehensive curriculum, prioritizes public service, and demonstrates a commitment to equity within the legal profession. At UC Irvine Law, we are driven to improve our local, national, and global communities by grappling with important issues as scholars, as practitioners, and as teachers who are preparing the next generation of leaders. The collaborative and interdisciplinary community at UC Irvine Law includes extraordinary students, world-renowned faculty, dedicated staff, engaged alumni, and enthusiastic supporters. Connect with us on Bluesky, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Threads, and sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest news and events at UC Irvine Law.