WAISN developments and our work in Benton and Franklin counties
October 10, 2026
Community members and partners have contacted Tri-Cities Immigrant Coalition (TCIC) with questions about recent developments at the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN) and what they mean for local immigrant justice work.
Public reporting has documented staffing reductions at WAISN, which operates a statewide deportation-defense hotline and coordinates other immigrant support. We recognize the importance of hearing directly from those involved. The links below provide access to reporting, WAISN’s public information, and the WAISN Worker Collective’s statements. We encourage folks to explore and review those sources.
TCIC’s focus remains on Benton and Franklin counties:
Where does this leave immigrant justice work locally; who is doing what, where are the gaps, where can we support?
Public information and further reading
- KUOW reporting, published by OPB: WAISN staffing reductions and responses from leadership and workers
- WAISN’s website and service information
- WAISN Worker Collective’s October 7 video statement
- WAISN Worker Collective’s statement and solidarity fundraiser
- National Labor Relations Board charge record
- National Labor Relations Board representation petition record
Statements represent the views of their authors.
Our local roles
TCIC is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing community education, engagement, advocacy, and immigrant support. Our work includes:
- Emergency financial assistance, subject to eligibility and available funding.
- Free initial immigration legal consultations.
- DACA renewal fee assistance.
- Immigration court accompaniment.
- Know Your Rights training, presentations, workshops, forums, and community outreach.
- Community events and opportunities for connection.
- Advocacy with elected officials and public education.
- Partnerships and referrals to other community resources.
We are completing the transition to independent operations, and funding through our direct support programs may take additional time during the ongoing independent nonprofit formation and separation of past fiscal sponsors.
Visit our program overview and community resources page for more information.
The People’s Coalition brings organizations and volunteers together for raid preparedness work before, during, and after a raid in Benton and Franklin counties. It is a collaborative effort rather than a separate 501(c)(3). Its subcommittees focus on Mutual Aid, Legal, Communications, Grassroots, Policy & Advocacy, and Volunteer Coordination.
What we’re focused on next
Working with The People’s Coalition and other local partners, we have some guiding questions:
- How are reports being coordinated outside scheduled service hours?
- What resources are available in Benton and Franklin counties?
- How can families access legal referrals, accompaniment, interpretation, and transportation?
- What practical and financial support can families access?
- What are the current needs for volunteers, funding, training, and coordination, and how can local partners contribute?
Join the conversation
The People’s Coalition meets Tuesday, October 13, at 6 p.m. at Tierra Vida Cafe, rather than The Leo Center. Brenda Rodríguez López, WAISN Co-Executive Director, will attend to answer questions about WAISN’s work. In-person attendance is encouraged; a remote option is being explored.
TCIC’s All Council meets Monday, October 19, from 6:30–7:30 p.m., in a hybrid format. Location and joining details will be shared separately.
We invite volunteers and partners to bring questions, share local needs and available resources, and help identify where we can support immigrant justice work in Benton and Franklin counties.