From peaceful sit-ins to confrontations with police and National Guard troops, LA protests over immigration enforcement have rapidly evolved.
🔥 The Spark: Federal Immigration Raids
In early June 2025, the federal government launched coordinated immigration raids across Los Angeles. On June 6, authorities arrested roughly 40 people suspected of violating immigration laws. Word of mass detentions spread fast, prompting immediate outrage. Community groups, students, and worker rights advocates took to the streets — determined and angry.
Day Two: Demonstrations Turn Heated
The following evening, June 7, saw protesters gather near Pershing Square. Their demand was simple: stop the raids and ensure that LAPD do not cooperate with ICE. Police issued an unlawful assembly order after demonstrators refused to disperse. Tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash‑bangs followed. The clash ignited widespread anger and brought more people out the next day.
Escalation and Reinforcement
By June 8, crowds filled downtown streets. Some blocked the 101 Freeway. Others set fire to vehicles near the federal detention center. Authorities, including riot gear LAPD and even National Guard units, responded forcefully. Protesters chanted “No raids, no fear” and carried Mexican flags in solidarity.
The Filipino Citizen Incident
Amid the turmoil, reports circulated about a Filipino citizen who was briefly detained during the raids. The Philippine Consulate later clarified that he had no ties to ICE operations and is now safe and released . Yet, the scare hit home for many Filipino American families in LA. They worry that anyone—even legal residents or U.S. citizens—could become caught in sweeping enforcement actions. This incident has deepened community mistrust and fueled solidarity across immigrant groups.
National Guard and Federal Pushback
On June 9, President Trump authorized federal deployment of up to 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to LA—marking a rare move without the state governor’s consent California’s leadership condemned the decision as hostile and inflammatory. Yet visibly armed Guard units stood guard around key downtown districts.
Current Status: Under a Cloud of Tension
As of today, June 10:
• Protesters are still gathering in smaller groups.
• National Guard and LAPD checkpoints remain in place.
• City officials are pushing dialogue. They’ve reached out to community leaders and civil liberties advocates.
• Despite some destruction—burned cars and scattered skirmishes—most recent demonstrations stayed peaceful by daylight.
Why It Matters
These LA protests go beyond one policy. They reflect a larger struggle: immigrants demanding dignity, security, and recognition. For many, the fear isn’t just about detentions—it’s about being permanently on edge in the country they call home.
