From the bottom of my soul, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in light of the suffering thousands of our fellow countrymen and women have experienced as a result of immigration enforcement, whether through confinement, prison, imprisonment, or even the death of a friend or family member.

We are aware that these terms may not help you or lessen your suffering, but we want you to know that I will always be there for you, regardless of your circumstances. I'm not speaking to you right now as a candidate for District 9 government, neither as a public servant, a place in which it has been a pleasure and an honor to work you all. As an immigrant who was brought to the United States by my family when I was very young, as a son of immigrants who witnessed the compromises their families made to raise their children, and as a native of District 9, where I have lived for more than 20 years and am starting to start a family, now I speak to you.

I want you to know that, like you, we also experience the pain and anger brought on by this illegal persecution, especially because of the level of violence displayed during the oppression of many members of our community. Many of us have not been direct victims of federal authorities.

Most immigrants, in my opinion, are outraged and frustrated because they can't do more to assist the families who are unable to have a friend or a relative. I want you to know that, whether you're from the government or just a District 9 neighbor, I'm proud of each and every one of you.

All residents of District 9 are also given these good wishes and support, regardless of whether they speak Spanish, English, or another language. They also receive this support. I want you to know that I appreciate every single bit of help and attention I have received in recent months. But more importantly, I want you to know that I will always have a friend in me. I want to thank my wife Vanessa, my daughter Loxley, and my parents for their unwavering support, for the education they gave me, and for the sacrifices they made to help us succeed. You can be certain that I was raised well, that I never let anyone down, not even my friends and acquaintances, and that District 9 in Los Angeles residents. I am deeply grateful for that. As a member of this community, you all want a more prosperous community with more jobs, better streets, and services. In order to achieve this, I promise to never fail you wherever I am and will continue to work to raise our standard of living. Finally, I sincerely wish you all a wonderful and content holiday with your loved ones. But above all, may the upcoming year be filled with optimism, new projects, and, most importantly, good health for everyone.

Thank you once more and I wish you a happy 2026.

* *Joe Ugarte is running for mayor of Los Angeles' District 9.

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