Workforce stability remains essential to the success of California's employers, workers and communities. Last month, UNITE-LA mobilized business leaders across the state to advocate for federal policies that support a strong and reliable workforce.

As Congress debated additional funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), UNITE-LA coordinated efforts to ensure policymakers heard directly from the business community about the importance of workforce stability. Our advocacy included a joint business letter, a press conference in El Sereno featuring UNITE-LA President Alysia Bell and local employers, participation in the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce fly-in and direct outreach to congressional offices, federal agencies and business partners.

Last month, UNITE-LA recognized our longtime partners at the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) for their leadership in bringing together community, labor and civic organizations to mark May Day in Los Angeles. The annual event highlights the contributions of workers and the importance of expanding economic opportunity for all.

CHIRLA's Executive Director, Angelica Salas, who also serves as treasurer of the UNITE-LA Board of Directors, has been a strong voice for policies and partnerships that support working families and strengthen communities throughout the region.

Last month, participants in the California Accessing Economic Mobility (CAEM) Fellowship gathered for their second learning session, exploring practical strategies to expand opportunity for low-wage workers across California.

The session featured leaders from Opportunity@Work, the Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce and the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), who shared insights on three approaches with significant potential to improve economic mobility: expanding access to child care, supporting immigration stability and adopting skills-based workforce practices. Together, the discussions reinforced a central theme: many of the barriers facing skilled, entry-level workers are solvable, and employers have an important role to play in advancing solutions.

UNITE-LA is proud to share that 51 business organizations from across California signed on to its annual budget letter advocating for increased early care and education reimbursement rates—an increase of more than 30 percent from last year, including 17 new partners.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:
Claudine Battisti

UNITE-LA URGES CALIFORNIA LEADERS TO PROTECT ECONOMIC MOBILITY INVESTMENTS IN FINAL STATE BUDGET

As part of California’s Apprenticeship Appreciation Week in April, UNITE-LA participated in a series of statewide convenings advancing equitable, career-connected learning and stronger workforce systems for Californians.

As part of National Bilingual/Multilingual Learner Advocacy Month in April, UNITE-LA released its latest report, Beyond English: Employer Perspectives on Language Skills at Work, which examines how employers view language skills in today’s economy and how multilingual talent is being leveraged across industries.

Last month, UNITE-LA's Policy team secured support from 14 business organizations for SB 1132 (Smallwood-Cuevas), a co-sponsored bill focused on workforce rights training.

UNITE-LA partnered with the Valley Industry and Commerce Association (VICA) to co-host a timely session in their VICA University series, supporting employers navigating new compliance requirements under SB 294, the Workplace Know Your Rights Act.

Last month, UNITE-LA President Alysia Bell joined Sarah Harris on 790 KABC’s The Bloc Power Hour radio show for an important conversation about the real economic impact of ICE raids, immigration and workforce policy across the country. From workforce stability to economic mobility, Alysia’s interview addressed how the ICE raids are hurting our local businesses, employees and communities. Listen on Spotify or your preferred podcast platform to hear the full conversation.