[Jun 10, 2025] Anti-ICE operations and riots in Los Angeles

The anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles are a response to recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting undocumented immigrants, which have sparked widespread demonstrations and clashes with law enforcement. The protests began after federal agents executed search warrants at several businesses suspected of employing undocumented workers, leading to arrests and public outcry. Demonstrators have gathered near federal buildings, including immigration courts and detention centers, demanding an end to ICE operations in the city, which is a sanctuary jurisdiction.

The protests have involved thousands of people blocking major freeways like the 101, setting fires to self-driving cars and dumpsters, and engaging in confrontations with police. Law enforcement has responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, flash bangs, and non-lethal foam projectiles to disperse crowds. Authorities have declared unlawful assemblies multiple times and made numerous arrests. Some protesters have thrown concrete, rocks, electric scooters, and fireworks at police, leading to injuries on both sides

The arguments of anti-ICE supporters in Los Angeles center on opposition to the federal immigration enforcement raids and the broader immigration policies under the Trump administration. Key points include:

• They view the ICE raids as overly aggressive and indiscriminate, targeting not just criminals but also innocent, hardworking immigrants and their families, which they see as a violation of fundamental rights and due process.
• Protesters and local leaders argue that the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles is an unlawful overreach of federal power, undermining state and local authority and escalating tensions unnecessarily.
• Many activists frame their opposition as a defense of immigrant communities striving for the American dream, emphasizing the personal and communal impact of deportations on families and neighborhoods.
• The protests are also seen as part of a broader movement against what supporters describe as authoritarianism and a crackdown on immigrant rights, with calls to end ICE operations and deportations that they argue tear apart communities.
• Union members and community organizations have joined the protests, highlighting concerns about labor rights and the targeting of workers in ICE raids.
• Local officials like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have criticized the federal response as heavy-handed and counterproductive, reinforcing the protesters' stance that the federal government's actions are exacerbating unrest rather than restoring order.

Comments:

My stance is straightforward: the U.S. government is responsible and accountable primarily to the lives and well-being of American citizens, not to immigrants—especially those who are in the country illegally. Some argue that illegal immigrants have a "right" to pursue the American Dream or similar aspirations, but frankly, no such right exists for those who have entered the country unlawfully. To put it simply, it’s like breaking into someone’s house and then claiming the right to live there. That’s unreasonable.

I believe that deporting illegal immigrants is the correct course of action. However, discretionary decisions can and should be made on a case-by-case basis, particularly for individuals who pose no threat and contribute positively to society during their stay. There are established legal pathways for migration, such as obtaining a visa or green card, or seeking asylum if there are legitimate grounds. These laws must be respected. If illegal immigrants disagree with the government’s actions, they have the right to challenge them through legal channels, such as filing lawsuits, to seek lawful status.

Regarding supporters of the Anti-ICE movement, I view many as hypocritical, abusing and concealing their true motives beneath the ideology of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Why do I say this? I agree that society should help and provide aid to those in genuine need. However, there is a crucial distinction between offering help voluntarily and claiming that such help is an entitlement. The former reflects a majority’s willingness to assist, while the latter is a minority demanding that the majority is obligated to do so. When the majority refuses, this is framed as a violation of DEI principles.

This progressive movement has evolved to a point where it effectively hijacks mainstream society, compelling the majority to conform to the demands of a vocal minority. This dynamic is evident not only in the Anti-ICE protests but also across industries such as movie and game production and employment, where DEI policies are increasingly mandated.

Moreover, there are numerous reports highlighting the deterioration of public safety in cities due to the influx of immigrants and the perceived leniency toward criminal behavior, including drug-related offenses. The embrace of DEI is forcing mainstream society to accept the values and lifestyles of minority groups, which many view as unfair. For these reasons, I support President Trump’s stance on immigration enforcement.