Widespread protests have erupted across the United States in response to recent immigration enforcement raids in Los Angeles. In reaction, President Donald Trump has deployed the National Guard and Marines, while activists are organizing larger demonstrations slated for the upcoming weekend.
From Seattle and Austin to Chicago and Washington, D.C., protesters have gathered to voice opposition to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Demonstrations near downtown areas and federal offices have caused traffic disruptions. While many protests have remained peaceful, some have escalated into clashes with law enforcement, resulting in arrests and the use of chemical irritants.
Despite the unrest, officials maintain that immigration raids and deportations will continue. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem affirmed on social media that “ICE will continue enforcement.”
Protests Across the Country
Philadelphia
Approximately 150 protesters assembled outside a federal detention center before marching to ICE headquarters. Some cyclists obstructed police roads, prompting multiple orders to disperse. Police arrested 15 individuals, including one for assaulting an officer and others for disorderly conduct. Two officers and two female detainees sustained minor injuries.
San Francisco
Around 200 protesters gathered outside the immigration court following weekend demonstrations involving thousands. Over 150 arrests were made during previous days amid incidents of property damage and injuries to two officers. Police condemned the violence but upheld the right to peaceful protest.
Seattle
Approximately 50 protesters convened at the immigration court, beating drums and displaying signs calling for the abolition of ICE and an end to deportations. Legal advocates and media representatives were denied access to the court.
New York City
Hundreds gathered in Lower Manhattan near federal immigration courts. Police maintained a heavy presence, detaining some demonstrators. Protesters voiced opposition to ICE and criticized police militarization.
Chicago
A small group protested outside the immigration court, urging an end to raids and military involvement in California. One woman reportedly drove a vehicle dangerously through the crowd, though no injuries were reported. The protest proceeded peacefully with minimal police intervention.
Denver
Protesters gathered outside the state capitol, displaying signs condemning ICE. The group divided into two, blocking traffic while police established roadblocks.
Santa Ana (near Los Angeles)
Armored vehicles blocked access to city hall, which houses federal immigration offices. Workers cleaned up debris and graffiti from earlier protests. National Guard troops armed with rifles guarded the area. Clashes occurred between protesters and supporters of the raids.
San Antonio
The Texas governor deployed National Guard troops ahead of expected protests. Police remain prepared for large demonstrations this week.
Austin
Police used chemical irritants to disperse hundreds of protesters near the state capitol and ICE offices after officers were injured by thrown objects. Authorities arrested 13 people. Officials emphasized support for peaceful demonstrations but warned that violent actions would lead to arrests.
Dallas
Hundreds protested on a city bridge before police declared the gathering unlawful and used pepper spray and smoke grenades to disperse the crowd. At least one arrest was reported.
Boston
Hundreds protested the detention of labor leader David Huerta during a Los Angeles raid. Demonstrators held signs expressing solidarity with Los Angeles residents and calling for immigrant community protections. Huerta was later released on bail.
Washington, D.C.
Multiple labor unions rallied to demand an end to immigration raids and the release of Huerta, marching past the Justice Department. Democratic Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal condemned the raids and criticized the use of tear gas and rubber bullets against peaceful protesters.
These protests highlight widespread opposition to the Trump administration’s stringent immigration enforcement policies. Organizers have announced plans for further nationwide demonstrations, including a major “Refuse the King” event on Saturday, scheduled to coincide with a planned military parade in Washington, D.C.
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