UPDATE: Hundreds of Angelenos converged on the 6th Street Bridge in downtown Los Angeles this morning, demanding an end to ICE raids and restoration of healthcare access for migrant communities. The rally, organized under the banner of “We The People Are Rising,” showcased widespread frustration with the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which many claim have instilled fear and uncertainty among local residents.
The protest, which began at 10:00 AM on July 15, 2023, featured more than a dozen local unions, immigration rights organizations, and elected officials who rallied to amplify their voices. Keynote speaker David Huerta, labor president of SEIU-USWW, condemned the government’s tactics, stating, “
Trump wants to silence the voices of working people and immigrants. Right now, we have to be louder and ensure our voices are heard.
”
Participants expressed deep concerns over the impact of ICE on local businesses and communities. Yungsu Kim, a 21-year-old attendee, highlighted the chilling effects of federal presence: “People are afraid to go out right now. In neighborhoods like Koreatown, which relies on retail, you aren’t seeing customers. Everyone is suffering.”
Businesses across the city have reported a significant decline in foot traffic, with some fearing permanent closures. One vendor at the Santa Fe Springs Swapmeet recounted how a visit from federal agents in June left them struggling to regain their clientele.
Councilmember Ysabel Jurado addressed the crowd, stating, “The Trump administration keeps using fear and cruelty as a campaign strategy. We are sick and tired of this political gamesmanship.” She emphasized the detrimental effects on healthcare access for millions of Americans, asserting the need for community support.
Echoing these sentiments, State Senator Maria Ladoso warned against the historical patterns of using fear for political gain, urging, “ICE will not go into our schools, hospitals, or communities. Keep ICE out of L.A. and California.”
The atmosphere of the protest was vibrant, with attendees marching to the sounds of Los Jornaleros Del Norte, a local band. Leading the crowd, Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, rallied the participants with chants demanding liberty and justice.
“
Las calles son del pueblo (The streets belong to the people),
” Salas shouted, guiding the march as it progressed towards the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo. Despite the confrontational nature of the chants, the mood remained positive, with street vendors selling refreshments and bystanders capturing the moment from their balconies.
Many attendees, like a resident known only as Big G, expressed personal stakes in the fight against ICE. “My whole life is based in this city. I love all immigrants across the country; they don’t deserve to be treated like this,” they said, underscoring the emotional impact of the ongoing crisis.
As the rally concluded, the message was clear: the call for justice and dignity for immigrant communities in Los Angeles is growing louder. With heightened tensions surrounding immigration policies, the situation remains fluid. Activists and residents alike vow to keep fighting for their rights and the restoration of essential services.
The next steps remain uncertain, but one thing is clear: Angelenos are united in their resolve to resist and demand change.
