Sacramento, California – Jan 17, 2025– “We are a safe place. PERIOD.” With these resolute words, SNAHC CEO Britta Guerrero underscores the Sacramento Native American Health Center’s commitment to protecting our community, including those most vulnerable—migrants, refugees, transgender community, and those living at the intersections of multiple oppressed identities—during these uncertain times under the new presidential administration.
In the current political climate, concerns about well-being and safety are escalating. The looming Project 2025 agenda intensifies fear, with threats such as educational censorship, blocks on public funds, anti-trans legislation, LGBTQIA+ rights rollback, and mass deportations. Simultaneously, reductions in healthcare and legal aid amplify risks for communities already underserved, deepening distress and uncertainty.
Challenges for Transgender Communities
For the trans community, safety means far more than pronouns or bathroom access. According to the 2022 U.S. Transgender Survey:
- 24% avoided seeking medical care in the previous year due to fear of mistreatment.
- Nearly 48% experienced at least one negative healthcare interaction.
- 44% faced serious psychological distress in the preceding month.
These challenges are magnified for transgender people of color, who encounter systemic inequities and greater health disparities. Many must navigate stigma, overcome barriers to healthcare, and endure disproportionate rates of homelessness, violence, and trans-antagonism.
Barriers for Immigrant Communities
Immigrants and refugees face compounding challenges, including discrimination and fear of deportation. A 2023 survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) and Los Angeles Times found that 25% of immigrant adults reported mistreatment by healthcare providers, citing factors such as:
- Insurance status or ability to pay (16%)
- Accent or English proficiency (15%)
- Race, ethnicity, or skin color (13%)
Black immigrants reported the highest rates of mistreatment (38%), followed by Hispanic immigrants (28%). Fear of deportation exacerbates these barriers, with 17% of undocumented immigrants in California avoiding public benefits, including healthcare, due to policy changes. PMC, California Health Care Foundation
These challenges extend to essential services like legal representation, healthcare, and housing—crucial for survival and stability. Families risk separation, while economic hardships intensify feelings of displacement and vulnerability.
At SNAHC, we recognize these shared struggles and are proud to be part of the solution.
While federal guidelines limit our ability to directly treat undocumented patients, SNAHC serves as a bridge to care by connecting individuals to trusted non-profits providing essential resources. Our Member Services team prioritizes finding the help you need, regardless of your legal status, gender identity, or sexual orientation. We proudly partner with over 40 organizations across different areas of care.
For example:
- Community Health Works at our Florin Road facility helps individuals enroll or re-enroll in Medi-Cal.
- La Familia offers free counseling and community services.
- Opening Doors provides legal services, including free representation in removal proceedings for low-income individuals.
In addition to our network, you don’t need to be a patient to participate in SNAHC’s cultural programming and events. These activities are open to all community members, offering opportunities to connect, engage, and celebrate Native culture. Stay updated on upcoming events by signing up for our newsletter [here].
For our gender-expansive community members, we reaffirm our dedication to providing a safe, supportive environment. At SNAHC, you will always be treated with dignity and respect. Learn more about our dedication to gender-affirming care [here].
SNAHC stands united with our patients, program participants, and the broader community, ensuring safety, dignity, and inclusivity for all—regardless of sexual identity, gender identity, or immigration status. Together, we will face the challenges of this new era, continuing to be a steadfast source of care and support for those who need it most.
SNAHC’s ICE Policy: Protecting Our Community
SNAHC enforces strict policies to protect the safety and privacy of our staff, patients, and visitors
Restricted Areas: Access is limited to SNAHC staff, patients, and persons accompanying them. These areas include:
- Waiting rooms
- Exam rooms
- Offices
- Areas containing protected health information (PHI)
- Records areas
ICE and Unauthorized Government Officials: No agent may enter SNAHC’s restricted areas—at 2020 J Street or 3800 Florin Road—without a valid judicial search warrant.
What Makes a Search Warrant Valid?
A valid search warrant must:
- Be based on probable cause.
- Contain specific details about the search.
- Be signed by a judge.
Additionally, warrants must meet five specific criteria, verified by SNAHC Executive Leadership:
- Judge’s Name and Signature: Clearly displayed with the time and date of issuance.
- Officer Identification: Lists specific officer(s) or group.
- Evidence Support: Includes names of the applicant and witnesses providing evidence.
- Location Details: Specifies the area, vehicle, or individual to be searched.
- Item Description: Details the objects authorized for seizure.
Administrative Warrants Are Not Enough
Administrative warrants, issued by ICE without judicial oversight, authorize detentions for deportation but do not grant access to private or restricted areas, including SNAHC premises.
By sharing this policy, we aim to empower and protect our community. If you have questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Resources
Project 2025: What’s At Stake for Immigrants’ Rights
Trans Equality: Trans Legal Survival Guide PDF
CAIR California: Sacramento Vally
Sacramento Fuel Network: Family Unity, Education, and Legal Network
Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services: Immigration Legal Services
Sacramento County: Healthy Partners Program
Healthy Partners: Fact Sheet PDF
La Familia Counseling Center: Programs Overview
Community Health Works: Services
Sacramento Rapid Response Network Region Covered: Sacramento, Placer, and Yolo Counties 916-382-0246
Sacramento Native American Health Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Federally Qualified Health Center committed to continue and share the legacy of a healthy American Indian / Alaska Native community based on cultural values delivered through a traditional, innovative and accessible patient-centered health home. SNAHC offers primary care, oral health, behavioral health, specialty, and supportive services in Midtown and South Sacramento plus a school-based health center. We are open to all, and all are welcome. For more information on SNAHC, visit www.snahc.org or call 916-341-0575 for an appointment.
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