Concerns over new proposed immigration policy prompts protests in Riverside County

Heightened concerns over President Trump's new proposed immigration policies prompted protests across the nation on Tuesday, including in Riverside County. 

Dozens of residents hit the streets on Tuesday afternoon outside of the Riverside County Administrative Center, calling for unity in a time that is unclear for so many. 

"They just come to work and make a living," said Veronica Caranza, who was on hand with her daughter. "Immigration is natural."

She says that though her daughter was born in the United States, she's still concerned about what could happen as an immigrant herself. 

Multiple agencies staged the demonstration, including the Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice and other Inland Empire immigrant rights groups. They're urging county leaders to follow California's law of being a sanctuary state. 

Their primary concern, however, is one public servant's promise to work with the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agency. 

"The local sheriff — Chad Bianco — has already promised to work with ICE, breaking laws California has had for years," said Eddie Torres, with the Alien Coalition for Immigration Justice. "That is a fight we're taking to the county board of supervisors to make sure the county is on board and they're holding the sheriff accountable."

Their efforts come at a time where new policies are already being put into action. Tom Homan, Trump's newly-appointed "border czar" says that deportations started on Tuesday, and that they would be even worse in sanctuary cities in coming months. 

Loyola Law School Professor Jessica Levinson says that being a sanctuary state doesn't stop federal law, but executive orders have limits nonetheless. 

"The federal government can not force a state or local law enforcement to carry out a federal policy," Levinson said. "You can't executive order your way out of binding legislation. You can't executive order your way out of the constitution."

She says that it's still unclear exactly what the orders entail, and if they're practical. 

"We are talking about 11 million people living in this country. We do not have the resources, we don't have the people power, the immigration courts, the places for people to stay," she said. 

The hot button issue is a divisive topic across America, and while many gathered for Tuesday's rally, others say something must change. 

"I want the border tightened up. I want people to come in legally," said one man. 

"I think the country needs immigration, but I don't believe people pouring over the border is a good thing," a woman said. 

Caranza hopes that everyone can come together to reach an adequate solution.

"If we're united, it's better for all of us," she said.