Poder Latinx’s Statement on the Supreme Court’s Decision in the Kristi Noem v. Pedro Vasquez Perdomo case

Washington, DC - The Supreme Court’s recent decision to allow ICE to resume racially profiling Latinos in Los Angeles is a devastating blow to our communities and to the fundamental rights the Constitution is meant to protect. By permitting government agents to target individuals based solely on the color of their skin, the language they speak, or the work they do, the Court has legitimized racial discrimination under the guise of law enforcement. This decision sends a chilling message that Latinos can be treated as suspects simply for being Latino — a deeply unjust precedent that threatens communities across the country.

“The ruling makes it painfully clear that Latinos can be singled out and harassed simply for our identity,” said Yadira Sánchez, Executive Director of Poder Latinx. “This is not just about Los Angeles, it signals a dangerous precedent for communities in Arizona and nationwide. Our families, our neighbors, and our communities should never live in fear of being targeted by the government because of who we are. We will continue to fight, to protect our communities, and to demand policies rooted in justice, dignity, and fairness.”

This case, Noem v. Perdomo arose after ICE was reported to be rounding up anyone who looked Latino in Los Angeles. A federal judge had previously blocked these indiscriminate raids, recognizing the unconstitutional nature of racial profiling. But today’s Supreme Court order reverses that protection, even as the full case remains under review, signaling that racial profiling may be normalized rather than challenged.

Poder Latinx stands with all communities facing discrimination and harassment. We will continue to fight for accountability, safe communities, and policies that protect — not target — Latinos across the country.

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