Over 300 immigrant rights activists gathered in downtown Los Angeles on Friday to protest against a series of surprise raids conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The protests erupted after federal agents detained employees at a clothing wholesaler in the Fashion District, which sparked outrage among the community and local officials.
The day began with chaos as federal agents entered Ambiance Apparel, using flash-bang grenades and pepper spray to disperse a crowd of protesters. The situation escalated, leading the Los Angeles Police Department to declare an unlawful assembly and order the remaining protesters to disperse. As tensions rose, police authorized the use of less-lethal munitions after reports of some individuals throwing objects at officers.
Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), addressed the crowd, expressing her concern for the immigrant community. "Our community is under attack and has been terrorized," she said, emphasizing that those targeted are workers and families.
During the raids, 44 people were arrested, and one individual was taken into custody for obstruction. ICE officials stated that the raids were part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws, executing search warrants related to the suspected harboring of undocumented individuals.
The protests drew support from local leaders, including Los Angeles City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, who condemned the raids as "cruel and unnecessary." Many attendees rallied outside the Los Angeles Federal Building, demanding the release of David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California, who was injured and detained while documenting the raid.
As the day progressed, reports emerged of ICE sightings in various neighborhoods, including near schools and community centers, further heightening fears among residents. Carlos González Gutiérrez, Consul General of Mexico in Los Angeles, reported that his office had identified at least 11 Mexican nationals detained during the raids and was offering legal assistance.
The protests reflect a growing frustration with the current administration’s immigration policies. Local officials and community leaders have vowed to continue advocating for immigrant rights and to push back against what they see as unjust enforcement actions.
The events of Friday highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in Los Angeles and the community’s determination to stand against perceived injustices.