Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) kicked off its national operation with a particularly brazen string of raids in Los Angeles. To that end, they detained at least 45 people without obtaining warrants. Under former President Donald Trump, operations increasingly expanded the scope of targets. These ranged from Ambiance Apparel in the LA Fashion District to two Home Depots, a doughnut shop and many more locations. The raids have faced fierce pushback from local leaders and community organizations, sparking protests citywide.
Coalition of Humane Immigrant Rights’ executive director, Angelica Salas, revealed the number of arrests at a recent ICE press conference. She called on residents to keep a watchful eye as the raids went forward, highlighting the fear and anxiety these actions caused to immigrant neighborhoods. “These actions are escalating: agents arrive without warning and leave quickly, aware that our communities mobilize fast. I want to remind Angelenos that we need to be vigilant,” said Eunisses Hernandez, member of the Los Angeles City Council.
In the wake of these raids, LA Mayor Karen Bass swiftly denounced ICE’s actions. She stated, “These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city. We will not stand for this.” The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) assisted federal officers in dispersing demonstrators but insisted it is not involved in civil immigration enforcement. Their show of force, we were told, was intended to protect the public from any harm during these military operations.
Local leaders and advocates have painted a grim picture of how these raids are tearing through families and communities. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who represents much of the district’s Los Angeles portion, emphasized that Los Angeles has been a longstanding sanctuary for immigrants. “Trump claims he’s targeting criminals, but he’s really just tearing families apart and destabilizing entire communities,” she stated.
Tia Orr, executive director of SEIU California, echoed these sentiments, calling for an end to what she described as “cruel, destructive, and indiscriminate ICE raids.” She emphasized the essential role immigrant workers play in society, saying, “Immigrant workers are essential to our society: feeding our nation, caring for our elders, cleaning our workplaces, and building our homes.”
As backlash Form as protests took to the street on the red-green raid, demonstrators came out in droves on Undermine ICE. Many expressed solidarity with those affected. “The whole community is here with you,” declared one rally speaker, “Your other family is here with you.”
Things got a little out of control as demonstrators tried to avoid confrontation with police. The Los Angeles Fire Department came to the assistance of those injured in violent clashes between customs agents and protesters. The community’s reaction demonstrates a growing frustration over the federal government’s approach to immigration enforcement.
Local governments have tried to thread the needle and address the controversy that has surrounded these operations. LAPD’s presence has drawn scrutiny about the role of law enforcement when these sorts of federal actions take place. Yet they continue to insist that protecting public safety and order during these volatile times is their core priority.