Los Angeles, CA — Thousands of protesters took to the streets last week in peaceful demonstrations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, as the federal government intensified its deportation efforts across the city. Carrying signs with messages such as “The People United Will Defend Immigrant Families” and “No Hate, No Fear, Immigrants Are Welcome Here,” activists and community members rallied in opposition to what they describe as a campaign of fear targeting immigrant communities.
In response to the protests, federal authorities deployed approximately 2,000 National Guard troops, a move critics condemned as an escalation meant to intimidate demonstrators.
Community Resistance Grows
Anabel Mendoza, Director of Communications for United We Dream Action, condemned recent ICE operations, stating that agents have been stationed near courthouses, schools, and public events to detain individuals—including parents, students, and labor activists.
“For weeks, armed ICE agents have lurked outside courthouses and school graduations, carrying out mass detentions,” Mendoza said. “They’ve targeted parents in front of their children, students on their way to practice, and even labor leaders like SEIU-USWW President David Huerta.”
She praised the Los Angeles demonstrations as evidence of broad public opposition to ICE tactics. “What we saw this weekend proves that Americans of all backgrounds are standing together against cruelty,” Mendoza said. “We won’t be silenced while armed agents and soldiers terrorize our communities.”
Federal Escalation Sparks Outcry
The deployment of National Guard troops has drawn sharp criticism from advocacy groups, who accuse the administration of using military force to suppress dissent. Mendoza warned that the government’s response demonstrates its willingness to target peaceful resistance.
“When working people stand up, this administration tries to break us—even by sending in the military,” she said. “But from Los Angeles to Boston, we will keep building power to protect each other.”
The protests reflect growing tensions over federal immigration enforcement, with advocates vowing to continue mobilizing against raids and deportations. Organizers say they plan further demonstrations as part of a nationwide movement in support of immigrant rights.
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