#United States #Los Angeles #Immigration #Civil Rights

Los Angeles New Year’s Eve Celebration Features Powerful 'Am I Next' Campaign

As the clock counts down to a new year, the heart of Los Angeles will beat even stronger as it hosts its renowned New Year’s Eve celebration, NYELA, at Gloria Molina Grand Park. This year's festivities will be uniquely underscored by the impactful 'Am I Next' civil rights initiative, aimed at sparking critical discussions around immigration enforcement and its consequences.

The 'Am I Next' campaign stands out not only for its artistic approach but also for its poignant message. During the festivities, images of everyday Angelenos will be projected onto the Hall of Records, creating a striking visual representation of those who live in fear of being swept up in federal immigration raids. This year alone, these raids have affected tens of thousands, including U.S. citizens, instilling a deep sense of uncertainty within the community.

The initiative aligns closely with NYELA's overarching theme for 2026, which is 'The Power of One.' This theme resonates particularly in a time when issues of safety, belonging, and civil rights are front and center. The projections serve as a reminder to pause, reflect, and express solidarity in a space that celebrates community. Lucas Rivera, project director of 'Am I Next,' articulated this sentiment perfectly, stating that the celebration and campaign embody the Los Angeles ethos—grounded in diversity and a shared commitment to equity.

"The Power of One speaks to something deeply Angeleno, that each of us matters and that dignity and due process begin with recognizing one another's humanity," Rivera emphasized. His words echo a broader call for awareness and action amid rising tensions surrounding immigration policies.

Notably, the 'Am I Next' campaign is a collaborative effort among various notable organizations, including the California Community Foundation, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, and the Japanese American National Museum. These institutions have been dedicated to fostering public dialogue and reinforcing democratic values through this powerful visual narrative, which began in November and will continue to unfold across various sites in Los Angeles into the new year.

NYELA itself is recognized as the largest free New Year’s Eve celebration on the West Coast, drawing thousands of attendees from across the region. The event promises a vibrant lineup featuring live music across two stages, engaging art installations, food trucks, and, of course, the much-anticipated midnight countdown. The projection on L.A. City Hall will serve as the striking finale to a night focused not only on celebration but also on contemplation.

Los Angeles has long been shaped by its residents' varied backgrounds, and the inclusion of the 'Am I Next' campaign reflects a community that is both resilient and reflective. As attendees gather to ring in 2026, they are reminded of the ongoing struggle for justice and dignity, turning a festive occasion into a platform for important discourse. To learn more about the initiative and its impact, visit aminextla.org.

This New Year's Eve, as Los Angeles embraces the hope that comes with a new year, it also invites its citizens to engage with pressing societal issues, ensuring that the spirit of community remains strong and united.