CULVER CITY — Community leaders and residents gathered and Veterans Park June 29 for a rally in support of Ambrocio “Enrique” Lozano, a local street vendor currently detained by federal immigration agents.
The event was intended to raise funds for Lozano’s bond, amplify calls for his release and demonstrate community solidarity.
Lozano, who has been selling paletas — Spanish for popsicles — for more than 20 years—was reportedly taken near Resurrection Church by a masked individual driving an unmarked SUV. His cart was left behind, and he was later confirmed to be in federal custody under inhumane conditions: denied food, exposed to extreme cold and restricted from visitation.
His abduction has shaken the Culver City community, Culver City school board President Triston Ezidore said. Known for his warmth and generosity, Lozano would often give away paletas to those in need.
Ezidore, who helped organize the event, said the rally was a call to action and that the community was demanding transparency, compassion and Lozano’s immediate release.
County Supervisor Holly Mitchell was among the community leaders attending the Veterans Park event.
“Earlier today, I stood alongside the Lozano family, fellow electeds, LA Voice and residents from across L.A. County to demand justice for Enrique and a call for an end to the ICE raids and attacks on our immigrant communities,” Mitchell said on her Facebook page. “Last week Ambrocio “Enrique” Lozano — a beloved, respected, and contributing member of our Culver City community who sold paletas (popsicles) for over 20 years — was taken from his family and community by masked men and put in a detention center without a warrant.”
Mitchell thanked U.S. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove and other members of Congress for fighting the Trump administration on the immigration raids.
“Across all levels of government, we will continue to stand up against this manufactured crisis by the Trump administration,” Mitchell said.
She encouraged resident to remain engaged and to carry “Know Your Rights” cards at all times.
She also asked those in attendance to write letters and contact their representatives.
“There are two important bills being discussed in the state Legislature,” Mitchell said. Senate Bill 627 and Senate Bill 805 would prevent law enforcement from hiding behind face coverings and require proper identification to be shown.
“Now is not the time to be divided,” she added. “Let’s continue to stand together to bring Enrique – and every person taken from our communities – home. These inhumane acts of injustice must end.”
