Demonstrations ignited across Southern California on Friday as part of a nationwide day of action against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Participants in the protests, which will continue through the weekend, included numerous local businesses that closed their doors or boycotted in solidarity with the movement.
The largest gathering occurred in Los Angeles, where thousands of protesters assembled outside City Hall, later marching toward the federal detention center. Amid escalating tensions, the Los Angeles Police Department reported on social media that protesters were involved in confrontations with officers, prompting authorities to issue multiple dispersal orders. Federal agents also deployed chemical sprays to disperse the crowd as the evening unfolded.
Prominent figures, including Democratic Representative Maxine Waters, joined the protests, vocalizing their opposition to ICE’s actions. Waters was seen chanting “ICE out of LA” in front of a line of riot-equipped officers, expressing solidarity with those exercising their constitutional rights. “What I see here at the detention center are people exercising their constitutional rights,” she remarked, highlighting the ongoing struggle against government actions that activists deem oppressive.
As the protests intensified, the LAPD implemented restrictive measures, warning that those who remained in designated dispersal areas could face arrest. Streets in downtown Los Angeles were closed to accommodate the demonstrations, which disrupted traffic and drew local attention.
Consistent with national sentiments, these protests coincide with rallies occurring across the United States following several officer-involved shootings connected to ICE operations. Activists have called for community members to strike from “school, work, and shopping” to pressure the federal government and raise awareness about their cause.
In addition to street demonstrations, protesters voiced their concerns at various locations, such as outside a Target store in Woodland Hills, criticizing the retailer for alleged cooperation with federal immigration agents. However, Target officials dismissed these claims, affirming that they do not have agreements with the government regarding immigration enforcement.
As the protests progressed, the Los Angeles Unified School District announced that its campuses would remain open, providing students with opportunities for expression and discourse about the ongoing issues related to immigration policy.
A series of protests and events continue to be scheduled throughout the weekend, with communities rallying to amplify their message against ICE. The initiatives highlight a collective call for justice and reform, uniting voices from diverse backgrounds in a concerted effort to foster change.