By Los Angeles County Politics (LACP)
U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Gardena, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lomita, portions of Torrance) held her first Town Hall of 2026 this weekend before a packed Robert E. Peary Middle School auditorium in Gardena, bringing with her experts in various fields relevant to her constituents, and putting immigration at the top of the agenda.
“We’ve got a lot of issues on the agenda. We’ll address many of them today. We’re going to have information about housing, and we’re going to have information about health care. We’re going to have the veterans share with us information about what’s going on,” Waters said in her introductory remarks. “But the big issue that we’re dealing with in the United States of America has to do with immigration. You’re looking at what’s going on in Minneapolis, you’re understanding for the first time who the National Guard are, who the Border Patrol are, and God knows, you’re understanding what ICE is.”
Waters used the moment to educate constituents about government accountability.
“Knowing all of that helps you to understand not only what is going on in the federal government, but you’re learning more about who has the responsibility for what, and who is being held accountable,” she said.
The agenda opened with a “Know Your Rights” presentation by Kristen Hunsberger from the Immigrants Defenders Law Center, whom Waters introduced as “an expert on immigration, deportation and the current situation much of our country is facing.”
Hunsberger emphasized the importance of community gatherings in the current climate. “Events like this are vital now, more so than ever,” she said. “What you’re doing by being present here today is a big part of how we are going to push forward together in order to defend our democracy and defend our constitutional rights.”
She stressed that constitutional protections apply universally. “Your constitutional rights apply everywhere and to everyone who is present in the United States, so that is regardless of status,” Hunsberger said.
Hunsberger provided practical advice for ICE encounters, emphasizing the right to remain silent and request an attorney. She warned that agents cannot enter private spaces without a judicial warrant signed by a judge.
Hunsberger cautioned residents not to open their doors to ICE agents. “Keep in mind that opening the door could be construed as saying you’re allowing them to come in,” she said. “Don’t do that. Speak through the door. Ask them to push the warrant underneath the door or hold it up against the window.”
She also shared the LA Rapid Response Hotline number (213-833-8283) for reporting ICE detentions and connecting families with legal resources.
The town hall also covered food resources, healthcare, college financial aid, IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service, veterans’ concerns, and housing. Waters has been a vocal advocate for homeless services and affordable housing, including support for organizations such as the Vermont Galaxy Community Outreach and Shelter.
Waters’ 43rd Congressional District also encompasses parts of South Los Angeles, including the communities of Westchester, Playa Del Rey, and Watts, as well as the unincorporated areas of Lennox, West Athens, West Carson, Harbor Gateway, and El Camino Village.
Waters, who has represented the area since 1991, currently serves as Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee.
Gardena Mayor Tasha Cerda introduced the congresswoman as a champion for veteran affairs, seniors, financial services, and economic justice.
“Some people may say she wears a cape, and to others, she’s just a hero,” said Cerda.
For more information, constituents can call 202-225-2201 or visit waters.house.gov.
