Public demonstrations are planned in Los Angeles as community groups, local leaders and residents respond to recent federal immigration enforcement and the deployment of National Guard troops in the region.
Events will coincide with Flag Day, and protesters are expected to carry an array of flags, including the Stars and Stripes, Pride Unity flags, and flags representing various countries. The rally will feature speakers such as Brian Tyler Cohen, Juan Ramirez of the American Federation of Teachers, Jessica Denson, Konstantine Anthony, and James L Smith II.
The coalition behind the protests includes groups like SEIU, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, the NAACP Justice & Civil Rights Committee, Black Deported Veterans of America, and other local and national organizations.
In recent weeks, federal authorities have increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Los Angeles, with reports of arrests occurring near schools, workplaces and places of worship. The federal government has also ordered National Guard troops to assist with enforcement actions in the city. These developments have drawn criticism from local officials and prompted a wave of organizing activity among advocacy groups, labor organizations and faith communities.
In response, several public actions are scheduled in the coming days. On June 13, a coalition of civic leaders, business owners and nonprofit organizations plans to hold a press conference at Park DTLA. Organizers say the event will address the impact of recent enforcement operations on Latino communities and highlight concerns about public trust and community safety.
A large protest march and rally is also planned for June 14 at Los Angeles City Hall. Organizers expect thousands of participants to join the demonstration, which will include a march through downtown Los Angeles and a rally featuring speakers from local and national organizations. The event is part of a national day of action and is expected to feature a range of visual displays and handmade signs.
These actions are part of a broader local response to federal immigration policies and enforcement tactics. Advocacy organizations have reported an increase in calls from residents concerned about the presence of federal agents and the impact on families and neighborhoods. Local officials, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom, have voiced concerns that recent federal actions are undermining trust and creating fear in communities across the city.
Organizers of upcoming actions say their goal is to provide a space for residents to express concerns about federal immigration enforcement and its effects on daily life in Los Angeles. As the city prepares for these events, organizers and participants are emphasizing the importance of public engagement and the right to assemble in response to recent developments.