BURSTSen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) on Wednesday launched a probe into whether the Los Angeles protests are funded by a local nonprofit.
Hawley, who serves as chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime & Terrorism, requested a history of internal communications and financial records from the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) to address allegations that they are fueling chaos in California.
“Credible reporting now suggests that your organization has provided logistical support and financial resources to individuals engaged in these disruptive actions,” Hawley wrote in the letter.
CHIRLA did not immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment on the matter. However, the 39 year old nonprofit did deny reports that they were involved in the Los Angeles demonstrations.
“We have not participated, coordinated, or been part of the protests being registered in Los Angeles other than the press conference and rally cited above,” a CHIRLA spokesperson told the New York Post.
The organization has received funds from various sources including the Department of Homeland Security to facilitate local citizenship education training.
“Let me be clear: bankrolling civil unrest is not protected speech. It is aiding and abetting criminal conduct. Accordingly, you must immediately cease and desist any further involvement in the organization, funding, or promotion of these unlawful activities,” Hawley wrote in his Wednesday letter.
Since protests began last week, the organization's leaders have joined forces with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) to rally against the raids.
“Hundreds are detained. Have your prayers say: stop the raids. Set us free as immigrants in this country,” Angelica Salas, CHIRLA executive director said during a Tuesday faith rally attended by Bass.
“We love this country. We want this country to love us back,” she added.