June 7, 2025
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ICE LA raids

ICE Operations in LA Trigger Massive Backlash, SEIU Calls It ‘War on Workers’

Annie

New York: Los Angeles woke up to sirens and unrest on June 6, 2025, as immigration enforcement returned to the city with brutal force. What began as targeted ICE raids across neighbourhoods in Westlake and South LA quickly escalated into something far larger: protests, arrests, and a national conversation about immigrant rights and labour justice.

Among those detained was David Huerta, president of SEIU California, who was reportedly injured while attempting to de-escalate a confrontation between federal agents and local organisers. As images of Huerta being taken away in handcuffs spread across social media, the city’s response was immediate—and explosive.

ICE Raids in Westlake: Day Laborers Detained at Home Depot

One of the most controversial incidents took place in the Home Depot parking lot in Westlake, where ICE agents detained a group of day laborers waiting for work. According to eyewitnesses, unmarked vehicles pulled up around 6:30 a.m., and agents began questioning individuals without clear cause.

Civil rights organisations including CHIRLA and the ACLU have condemned the actions, stating they may violate both city sanctuary policies and constitutional protections.

“These were working men, standing peacefully. They were hunted,” said Maria Lopez, a local volunteer and organiser.

SEIU President David Huerta Arrested While Defending Protesters

In a separate standoff near downtown LA, SEIU California President David Huerta was among those arrested during what was initially a peaceful rally outside a federal building. Reports say Huerta attempted to step between protestors and law enforcement when a physical confrontation ensued.

Huerta, a long-time advocate for immigrant labour rights, suffered minor injuries during the altercation. SEIU released a statement calling the arrest “a direct attack on the rights of working people,” and vowed to escalate their efforts statewide.

Also Read: South Park’s Beloved Eatery Raided by ICE: What Happened?

Protests Escalate Across LA

What began as isolated demonstrations quickly turned into citywide protests, with hundreds gathering in Koreatown, Boyle Heights, and Downtown LA. Protestors carried signs reading “Abolish ICE,” “No Human Is Illegal,” and “Union Strong, Immigrant Strong.”

By nightfall, clashes between protestors and LAPD were reported, including:

  • Tear gas near MacArthur Park
  • Temporary shutdown of the 101 Freeway
  • Arrests outside City Hall

Videos from the scene show protestors chanting “We keep us safe” and forming human chains to prevent further detentions.

Voices from the Ground

“We’re not just fighting ICE—we’re fighting fear,” said Ana Reyes, a DACA recipient present at the Home Depot raid.
“When our union leaders are arrested for standing up, we know the stakes are higher than ever.”

Community groups have organised emergency legal support, know-your-rights clinics, and a solidarity march planned for Sunday.

Political Fallout and What’s Next

Mayor Karen Bass has called for an independent investigation into the raids, stating that federal operations conducted without local coordination pose a threat to public trust. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom has demanded answers from DHS and pledged to protect vulnerable communities.

Demands now include:

  • Immediate release of non-criminal detainees
  • Apology and medical care for David Huerta
  • Reassertion of LA’s sanctuary policies

What’s happening in LA right now isn’t just about policy—it’s about people. It’s about workers, families, and communities who’ve had enough of being targeted. As LA residents fill the streets with chants of unity and resistance, the message is clear: “We belong here. We are not afraid.”