Los Angeles Raids Mark Dangerous Escalation, Poder Latinx Demands Immediate Action and Protections

WASHINGTON, DC — In response to the alarming immigration raids and militarized enforcement actions carried out by ICE and the California National Guard in downtown Los Angeles this past weekend, Yadira Sánchez, Executive Director of Poder Latinx, issued the following statement:

“What unfolded in Los Angeles was not enforcement, it was federally-backed intimidation designed to fuel xenophobia, racism, and division, instigated from the highest levels of government. The deployment of militarized forces by ICE and the National Guard under the president’s direction marks a dangerous escalation rooted in cruelty and a blatant disregard for immigrant lives.

Los Angeles is a city built by immigrants. The families targeted in these actions are not strangers or criminals—they are our neighbors, our workers, our culture bearers. These raids violate the very values that define our communities.

Congress also bears responsibility. Its continued failure to pass a humane, comprehensive immigration reform has left millions of families vulnerable and afraid. We need real leadership, not more empty promises.

Poder Latinx stands with the immigrant families of Los Angeles and across the country. We call on all leaders—at every level—to reject these acts of government-led violence and to fight for permanent protections that reflect our values of dignity, justice, and inclusion. We will continue to educate our communities about their rights, remind voters what’s at stake, and activate citizens to participate civically, because our voices, our votes, and our unity are our greatest tools for lasting change.”

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