The County of Los Angeles Commission on Human Relations honored One LA-IAF with its John Anson Ford Human Relations Award for their work organizing Freedom Schools that bring faith and community institutions together to strengthen civic belonging, protect human dignity, and build solidarity across lines of race, faith, language, and immigration status.

One LA launched its “Freedom School” strategy on July 4, 2025 in response to immigration raids and imminent threats to civil liberties. Since then, congregations and community partners across Los Angeles County have created disciplined spaces for encounter, leadership formation, and collective action.

Freedom Schools are beginning to take root across the West/Southwest IAF network as local affiliates adapt the strategy to strengthen relationships, develop leaders, and respond publicly to challenges facing immigrant families and democratic institutions in their own communities.

Sheila Thomas of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church (in photo above, holding the certificate) accepted the award on behalf of One LA.