ANA\California Statement on National Guard Deployment in Los Angeles County and Impacts on Healthcare Providers

National Guard Deployment in Los Angeles County and Impacts on Healthcare Providers.pdf

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June 9, 2025

SACRAMENTO, CA — The American Nurses Association\California (ANA\California) is closely monitoring the recent deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles County in response to the ongoing protests surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) practices. As tensions rise in affected communities, the role of healthcare providers—particularly nurses—becomes even more critical in maintaining community trust, safety, and access to care.

The presence of military personnel in civilian spaces during mass demonstrations can create unintended barriers to health services, especially for undocumented and marginalized populations. Increased fear and mistrust may prevent individuals from seeking emergency care or follow-up treatment, even in life-threatening situations. This poses a direct challenge to the nursing profession’s ethical duty to provide nonjudgmental, accessible, and culturally competent care to all.

ANA\California urges nurses and healthcare facilities to prepare for potential impacts, including:

• Disruptions in patient flow: Emergency departments and urgent care centers may see delayed or reduced visits due to fear of surveillance or enforcement presence.

• Increased emotional distress: Nurses may encounter higher levels of anxiety, trauma, or PTSD symptoms among patients—especially children and undocumented families.

• Staff safety and mobility: Healthcare workers should remain aware of protest routes, curfews, and any transportation barriers that may impact their ability to report for duty safely and on time.

ANA\California stands firmly in support of nurses and first responders in hospitals who continue to deliver critical care under rapidly changing conditions. We encourage healthcare systems to provide trauma-informed resources, mental health support, and real-time communication updates to their staff. We remind all nursing professionals of their pivotal role in safeguarding public health and upholding human dignity, particularly in times of civil unrest.

Dr. Marketa Houskova, DNP, MAIA, BA, RN

Chief Executive Officer

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About American Nurses Association\California (ANA\California) 

ANA\C is a bi-partisan professional nursing organization representing the interests of more than  500,000 licensed registered nurses in California. Our mission is to optimize nursing contributions to the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. As a state-level professional advocacy organization, ANA\C has been extensively involved in legislative efforts supporting many bills, regulations, and policies that became California’s laws and are currently assisting in making California a place of Nursing Excellence.