There is a long-standing belief in the United States that it is a place where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. This belief inspired migrants like Maria Miranda's parents to leave Mexico in search of a better life for their daughter. Maria, once an undocumented migrant, is now the elementary vice-president of United Teachers Los Angeles, representing teachers facing unprecedented challenges.

Last week, a family from El Salvador was detained in California, including their young children. Denied access to a lawyer, they were sent to Texas, leaving Maria heartbroken. The crackdown on undocumented migrants by the Trump administration is turning the American dream into a nightmare for many.

The recent protests in Los Angeles have brought international attention to the city. Coordinated raids on workplaces, part of the immigration blitz by the Trump administration, have resulted in over 100,000 arrests by ICE. The raids have put the city's estimated one million undocumented residents on edge, with many fearing for their safety and future.

Immigration attorney Eric Welsh highlights the irony of a country built on immigrant labor now turning its back on them. Clients, including naturalized citizens and green card holders, are living in fear. The economy relies on migrant workers, yet they are not treated humanely.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto are taking legal action against the Trump administration's immigration policies. Ms. Soto, the first Latina elected citywide, challenges the president's actions, stating that he does not have a mandate for mass sweeps or deploying federal troops.

Despite the ongoing turmoil, there is hope that the American dream will prevail. Ms. Soto believes in upholding constitutional principles and working together as part of the United States. Maria Miranda also holds onto hope, trusting that the country will overcome this challenging chapter in its history.