Protesters filled the streets across parts of Los Angeles over the weekend, demanding an end to immigration enforcement and the detention of community members. What began as localized resistance quickly grew into a broader outcry against what many see as a pattern of targeted raids and over-policing.
The incident began Friday when David Huerta, President of SEIU California and SEIU United Service Workers West, was reportedly detained and injured while observing and documenting law enforcement activity. His detention became a flashpoint and led to protests across Paramount, Inglewood, and Whittier.
“Everyone would like to think LA’s on fire and it’s a war zone — it’s not,” said Joey Williams, who was in LA on Saturday. “It’s really contained to a small park where the National Guard has been deployed around the federal building on Alameda.”
Despite the limited geographic scope, Williams said the police presence was intense. Williams described “blocks and blocks of police,” comparing the scene to a “police state.” Tear gas was reportedly deployed, and at least one individual was trampled during the demonstrations.
Much of the public anger, Williams said, is aimed at federal and local leadership.
“The media isn’t telling the full story,” Williams said, criticizing how officials have framed the protests as violent. “Most of the violence is incited either by ICE or the LAPD.”
Protestors are demanding the release of Huerta, as well as 40 other individuals believed to have been detained during raids in the area. In one disturbing account, ICE allegedly entered a graduation ceremony, drawing outrage from families and community members.
On Monday, a major rally took place at Grand Park, where an estimated 1,000 people gathered to call for the release of those detained. While numerous elected officials showed up in support, Mayor Karen Bass was absent.
“There’s a lack of leadership,” said Williams. “We were at an event today — everyone was there except the mayor.”
The detentions and protests are especially personal for Williams, who sees them as part of a longer history of indigenous displacement and trauma.
“I’m Native American. My ancestors were removed from Yogo, where downtown LA now sits,” he explained. “This is no different. These folks have been living, trading, intermarrying for thousands of years.”
Concerns have also been raised about a possible military escalation, with the deployment of Marines from Camp Pendleton.
“This kind of response is dangerous,” Williams warned. “It risks fueling more escalation rather than addressing the root of the issue.”
The protests are expected to continue in the days ahead, as community members demand accountability and justice.
