This workshop is offered in two identical sessions on the same day. Please register for ONE session only.
Monday, March 9
Session 1: 8:30–10:30 AM (You are on this MORNING session page)
Session 2: 2:30–4:30 PM
Each session covers the same content and is offered to accommodate different industry schedules. If this time does not work for you, please register for the afternoon session HERE>>> 2:30 PM session.
FREE Admission, registration required. Presentation in English.
An Interactive Immigration Workshop for the Workplace
Practical guidance for employers and managers
In today’s environment, business owners and managers cannot afford uncertainty when it comes to immigration compliance and workplace response. Preparation — calm, lawful, and thoughtful — is the most responsible path forward.
This interactive workshop is designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits, especially those in service-oriented and people-facing industries.
Participants will gain clarity about employer responsibilities under California law, strengthen internal workplace procedures, and practice real-world scenarios so they can respond confidently and appropriately if immigration enforcement issues arise.
Confirmed Speakers
Vicki Handron
Founding Attorney, Sonoma Immigrant Services
Vicki will provide clear, business-relevant legal context, including what employers can and cannot do under California laws such as SB 294 (effective February 1, 2026) and AB 450.
Linda Evans
Community Advocate, North Bay Rapid Response Network
Linda will explain the role of the Rapid Response Network, when employers should call, what information matters, and how businesses fit into the broader community response.
Laurie Fong
President, AAPIC North Bay
Longtime Sonoma County educator and experienced facilitator, Laurie will guide interactive scenarios and role-play so participants can practice simple, lawful responses in a supportive environment.
What Makes This Workshop Different
This is not a lecture.
Through realistic skits, guided discussion, and small-group exercises, participants will work through common and ambiguous workplace situations. The goal is practical preparedness — helping employers think through decisions before a situation occurs.
Interactive components include:
- High-level overview of constitutional protections relevant to employers
- Clarification of what employers need to know — and what they do not need to know — about employee status
- Scenario-based role-play reflecting real workplace encounters
- Industry- or size-based breakout discussions
- Group synthesis of key takeaways and best practices
Who This Workshop Is For
This session is intended for:
- Owners of small and medium-sized businesses
- Nonprofit leaders
- Managers, supervisors, and operations leads
- Employers seeking practical, workplace-specific guidance
- Businesses that rely on trust, stability, and clear internal procedures
What Participants Will Take Away
Participants will leave with:
- A clearer understanding of employer rights and responsibilities
- Practical guidance directly from an immigration attorney
- A Workplace Immigration SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) packet to adapt and implement
- Greater confidence in responding calmly and lawfully
- Resources for continued engagement and training
Preparedness Is Leadership
A prepared workplace protects not only the business, but also employees, customers, and the broader community. Thoughtful planning reduces fear, confusion, and risk.
If you know fellow business owners or managers in Sonoma County who would benefit from this information, please share this event page with them. The more informed our employer community is, the stronger and more stable our local economy will be.
In Collabration With
- City of Petaluma
- Petaluma Downtown Association
- Petaluma Visitors program
- Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
- Sonoma Immigrant Services
Download the flyer for sharing in JPG or PDF formats
