BREAKING: Hundreds of Angelenos gathered this morning at the iconic 6th Street Bridge in downtown Los Angeles to protest against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. The rally, titled “We The People Are Rising,” called for an immediate end to ICE raids, racial profiling, and attacks on freedom of speech, following heightened fears in local immigrant communities.
The event saw participation from over a dozen local unions, immigration rights organizations, and elected officials. Keynote speaker David Huerta, labor president of SEIU-USWW and SEIU Local 1000, emphasized the urgent need for activists to amplify their voices against perceived government oppression. “Trump wants to silence the voices of working people and immigrants. We have to be louder and make sure our voices are heard,” Huerta declared, recalling his own traumatic experience of being detained by federal agents during a raid in June.
Participants highlighted the chilling effects of ICE actions on local businesses. Yungsu Kim, a 21-year-old community member, noted, “People are afraid to go out right now—both Korean folks and my Latino neighbors. You see less foot traffic, which means neighborhoods like Koreatown are suffering.” Many businesses across the city are struggling, with some fearing permanent closure due to the ongoing climate of fear.
Amid the rally, Councilmember Ysabel Jurado criticized the Trump administration’s tactics, stating, “The Trump administration keeps using fear and cruelty as a campaign strategy. We are sick and tired of these political games.” She emphasized the importance of community services that keep neighborhoods safe and healthy.
State Senator Maria Ladoso echoed these sentiments, recalling past political exploitation of immigrant communities. “We are not going to let them strip us of the respect and dignity our communities deserve,” Ladoso stated firmly. “ICE will not go into our schools, hospitals, or communities. Keep ICE out of L.A. and California.”
The vibrant rally featured music from Los Jornaleros Del Norte, a local band whose lyrics resonate with the struggles of day laborers and migrant workers. As the crowd marched down East 6th Street, rally leader Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, led chants demanding liberty and justice.
Despite the serious nature of the protest, the atmosphere remained positive with street vendors selling refreshments and many onlookers recording the event from nearby balconies. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed deep concern for the community’s safety. “My whole life has been based in this city. I love this city and all immigrants across the country; they don’t deserve to be treated like this,” the resident stated.
As the rally concluded, the need for continued activism in the face of aggressive immigration policies was clear. Organizers urged attendees to remain vigilant and engaged, making it evident that this movement is far from over. The event serves as a direct challenge to the ongoing policies of the Trump administration and a call for unity among all communities.
WHAT’S NEXT: As the protest highlights growing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, community leaders are expected to hold further discussions and actions in the coming weeks to address these critical issues.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the fight for immigrant rights continues in Los Angeles and beyond.