LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 (Xinhua) -- Multiple demonstrations were held on Saturday across Southern California against enforcement raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The protests, organized by "50501 movement," a grassroots political organization, were part of the "ICE Out of Everywhere" national day of action, aiming to show solidarity with Minnesota and for those who have died as a result of federal agents' aggressive tactics.
In front of Los Angeles City Hall, over 500 protesters of all ages gathered at 4:00 p.m. local time (0000 GMT Sunday), holding signs reading "ICE Out of LA," "Ashamed to be an American," and "I Like my ICE Crushed." Demonstrators chanted anti-administration slogans to the beat of drums as passing vehicles honked in support.
"I am here because of the brutal ICE violence in our cities and because we want to stand up for what's right in our country, and we don't want to stay silent," a protester who identified herself as Ari told Xinhua.
"I'm here with my friend to protest the violence of ICE," Chloe, a young woman, told Xinhua. "We just saw a lot of government brutality and violence against innocent people, but they can't defend themselves. We want an end to the raids."
On its official website, the "50501 movement" called on communities to protest outside ICE detention centers, ICE field offices, airlines transporting detainees and congressional offices. The group urged lawmakers to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE.
"Everyday Americans are coming together to demand the immediate and permanent removal of ICE, DHS, CBP (Customs and Border Protection) from communities with over 300 events nationwide," organizers with 50501 SoCal said.
The crowd also sang the chorus of "We're Not Gonna Take It" by the American rock band Twisted Sister.
Albert Hernandez, a 94-year-old U.S. Air Force veteran, told the Los Angeles Daily News that he joined the protest because he wants Republicans and Democrats alike to "have a backbone and stand up to (President Donald) Trump", preventing America from returning to a state of "terror and unrest."
In Baldwin Park, a small city located 20 km east of downtown Los Angeles, dozens of people gathered at a major intersection, holding signs, cowbells and American flags. Messages included "We Stand with Minneapolis" and "ICE Out of LA."
"I'm really terrified of what's going to happen," Los Angeles resident, Hanna Hixson told local news outlets. "It's scary because ICE has complete immunity. It's out of hand."
Saturday's demonstrations followed a national day of action on Friday known as "National Shutdown," which called for supporters to stay home from work and school, and refrain from shopping in an effort to "stop funding ICE."
Thousands took part in Friday's rally and march in downtown Los Angeles. While daytime events remained peaceful, clashes erupted after nightfall when police declared the assembly unlawful. Protesters threw trash and debris toward officers, who responded with pepper balls and irritant sprays.
At least five people were arrested during the confrontation, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said, urging demonstrators to remain peaceful and avoid vandalism. ■