How Los Angeles United to Stand Up Against ICE Operations

In June 2025, Los Angeles became the epicenter of some of the most intense protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in recent history. Following a series of federal immigration sweeps targeting undocumented workers across the city, thousands of residents, activists, labor unions, and community organizations came together to resist what they described as aggressive and unjust enforcement tactics. This article unpacks the timeline of events and how the diverse communities within Los Angeles united to push back against ICE actions.

The Spark: ICE Raids Ignite Protests

Early Raids on June 6, 2025

The turmoil began on the morning of June 6, when ICE agents conducted coordinated raids targeting several businesses in neighborhoods such as the Fashion District and Westlake. These operations focused on workplaces suspected of harboring undocumented immigrants, resulting in 44 arrests that day. The raids included dramatic moments such as federal agents chasing individuals in Home Depot parking lots and detaining workers at apparel warehouses.

Almost immediately, protests began to surge. Crowds gathered at key locations including the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building downtown, demanding an end to the raids. Clashes quickly followed between protesters and ICE agents, with demonstrators attempting to block vehicles transporting detainees and throwing objects in confrontation. Police responded with crowd control tactics including tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades.

Escalation and Solidarity: Growing Protests Across the City

June 7 to 9: Expanding Protests and Political Backlash

On June 7 and the following days, protests spread to areas like Paramount, Compton, and MacArthur Park. Thousands took part in marches, rallies, and sit-ins organized by the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles, the Service Employees International Union, and other groups. These demonstrations mixed peaceful resistance with moments of unrest, at times resulting in vandalism of federal property and confrontations with law enforcement.

In response to escalating tensions, President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles on June 7, later authorizing additional forces including 700 Marines. This federal intervention was met with fierce criticism from local officials such as Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the deployment unnecessary and inflammatory.

The Community’s Stand: Voices, Actions, and Impact

Diverse Groups Leading the Resistance

One of the defining features of the Los Angeles protests was the unity across diverse sectors of the city — immigrants, labor unions, students, faith groups, and neighborhood organizations all participated in a collective stand. Protesters chanted slogans like “ICE out of LA,” “No más deportaciones,” and “Defend our communities,” while calling for immigration reform and an end to racial profiling.

Rallies at iconic locations like Grand Park and Mariachi Plaza became focal points for speeches, music, and art expressing solidarity. Despite the visible presence of law enforcement and the National Guard, the protests continued for days, representing a sustained and determined grassroots movement.

Clashes and Challenges

While many actions remained peaceful, some protests involved violent confrontations, property damage, and arrests. Police declared several large gatherings “unlawful assemblies” following reports of projectiles like rocks and fireworks being thrown. Over 100 arrests were made in the early days of unrest. Journalists covering the events also faced detentions.

Conclusion: Los Angeles’ Bold Stand Against ICE

The June 2025 protests in Los Angeles illustrated a powerful moment of collective resistance against immigration enforcement perceived as harsh and politically motivated. By uniting across diverse communities and confronting a heavily militarized federal response, Los Angeles set an example of activism fueled by deep concerns for immigrant rights and social justice.

What unfolded in the streets and neighborhoods was more than opposition to ICE raids — it was a declaration that the people of Los Angeles would not stand by quietly as families were torn apart and communities destabilized. This historic moment will be remembered as a city coming together to demand dignity, justice, and change.