Laborers gathered outside a Home Depot in Pomona on Tuesday morning looking for work. Instead of job opportunities, they were met by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents who began detaining workers in the parking lot.
According to L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis, community members reported that between 15 and 20 individuals were taken into custody during the operation, which started around 8:30 a.m. In response to the raid, Solis quickly directed the Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs to work with the Pomona Day Labor Center. This effort aims to ensure that those affected receive the necessary support and resources. Solis emphasized her commitment to protecting the rights of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
One laborer who managed to avoid detention shared the emotional impact of the raid. He expressed his distress at witnessing the situation unfold, stating, “I started crying. The tears started leaving. We are here. We are human beings. We’re only here to support ourselves and maintain our families.”
The Pomona Economic Opportunity Center, a nonprofit organization that assists day laborers, reported that the raid involved both marked and unmarked vans. The organization condemned the ICE action, stating, “Seeking employment is not a crime. Providing for those you love is not a crime.” They encouraged community members to remain vigilant and report any immigration enforcement activity.
ICE has not provided specific details about the operation, citing the agency’s ongoing work and the high volume of requests it receives. The Pomona Police Department confirmed that an immigration action took place but stated they had no prior knowledge or involvement in the raid. They clarified that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and that they did not collaborate with ICE.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in California, where many community groups have been actively working to protect the rights of immigrant workers. As the situation develops, local officials and organizations are rallying to support those affected and ensure that immigrant rights are upheld.