Seattle immigrants' rights leaders on Trump: 'It's wrong our children experience fear and trauma'

Western Washington immigrant rights groups discussed what they call a "path forward" on the day that Donald Trump started his transition into the presidency.

Trump promised of mass deportations and restrictions on immigration throughout his campaign.

Across the nation, immigration leaders have voiced fears of raids on illegal immigrants, possible abuse of process and increased detentions.

Local leaders gathered Thursday around a podium at Seattle's El Centro De La Raza to say that their movement for immigrant and refugee rights will continue its mission of a safe, welcoming America for all.

While delivering messages of support, some leaders addressed how electing Trump impacted children in their communities.

"We heard pain, the shock, the fear, and the disbelief (from our community) that the country elected a president that campaigned on an agenda of hate and disregard for so many," Estela Ortega of El Centro de la Raza said.

"Our children are also listening. We received information from one of our preschool teachers that her 4- and 5-year-olds are worried if de la Raza will not be here. My own grandson asked my daughter if we would pack up and leave. It's plain wrong our children are having to experience this kind of fear and trauma," Ortega said.

>> Related: Muslim ban statement disappears from Trump's website

"Muslim children are scared or feeling hopeless today, not knowing if they will have a place for them as Muslims," said Aneela Afzali of the Council on Islamic-American Relations of Washington. "In post-Trump's America, to those children, I say, 'This is your home. Me and all your allies here stand with you. You have the right to grow up with the same hopes and dreams as any American and be a practicing Muslim and a fully fledged American.'"

Seattle Mayor Ed Murray said after Election Day that despite the views held by President-elect Trump, Seattle would remain a welcoming city for immigrants, minorities and others.

KIRO 7 News streamed Thursday's conference live on Facebook on as newly elected Seattle U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Councilwoman Lorena Gonzalez and other leaders spoke. Watch it here or below.

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