Historian pondering over whether this past week marked a significant shift in the tide of fascist movements.

Reminiscing about that March day five years ago, when Hollywood heavyweights fell like dominoes and the world seemed to change overnight, I can't help but feel a pang of déjà vu as I watch downtown LA transforming before my eyes.

Will this be another strange and absurd chapter in our long, strange journey, or have we finally reached a tipping point? Could this be the beginning of the end for American democracy as we know it?

Last week, the White House ordered national guard troops into a city against a state governor's wishes – the first time such an action had been taken in 60 years. On the same day, California's senior senator was manhandled and cuffed at a press conference.

Actor wannabes clad in riot gear seemed to be practicing their battle drills on a high school soccer field, as more Marines descended upon LA. Social media seemed to capture every moment, with images of automatic weapons and cops in gear hitting mainstream news.

Meanwhile, the president and the governor traded barbs through Truth Social and X, as ICE raids sent some people into hiding and others carrying on with their ordinary lives.

Mayor Bass has warned that LA is being used as a petri dish by the president to test his power over Democratic mayors and governors.

Centuries of democracy are at stake, argues Federico Finchelstein, a professor of fascism and dictatorships at the New School for Social Research in New York. Finchelstein sees last week's events as an assault on democratic norms that jeopardizes democracy.

But, he is hesitant to call these events a turning point. It's hard to know, he says, where this ends, especially when we're living in the thick of history. We've been here before, after all.

There's always a chance that democratic institutions will stand strong against these attacks, but history has shown that when democracy is undermined and met with public resistance, authoritarianism often wins.

This weekend, widespread demonstrations against the administration are planned in LA and other major cities, as the federal government's immigration crackdown expands beyond Southern California.

A Spanish-language protest group has been making its voice heard, unfurling flags representing the countries of Mexico, El Salvador, and Guatemala to symbolize their defiance against the administration's actions.

It's more crucial than ever to weigh the facts against the spin and misinformation as we navigate these uncharted waters together. Stay informed, stay strong, and stay safe.

The week's biggest stories

No More Mr. Nice Guy: Nationwide 'No Kings' protests planned this weekend

Sick of the Trump administration's policies and attempts to suppress democracy? Join the 'No Kings' demonstrations planned across the nation this Saturday, including in downtown LA. Find out where these demonstrations will take place in your city.

Mexican Beverly Hills on edge after Trump immigration raids

Downey, once known for its affluent residents and thriving businesses, has been roiled by Trump's immigration raids this week. Councilman Mario Trujillo says the raids are creating a climate of fear that's keeping even document holders at home.

Protests or agitators: Who is driving chaos in LA immigration protests?

With violence, property damage, and clashes with police, the spotlight has shifted away from the actual focus of immigration protests: the Trump administration's large-scale immigration sweeps. The real question on everyone's mind: who is driving the chaos in LA protests?

Immigration authorities sweep through Ventura County, farm workers missing in action

In the latest chapter of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, ICE raided farms and packinghouses in Ventura County, resulting in an eerie silence on farm fields. Missing workers and chaos mark the aftermath of the raids.

This week's must reads

Entertainment & Arts

Dreamers built a 1920s utopia in the Palisades. How remnants of that Chautauqua movement survived the fire

The Chautauqua movement came to Pacific Palisades a century ago with a vision of healthy living. Much of the settlement has been lost to time, but some buildings managed to survive, even through the flames.

For Your Weekend

Going Out

Pasjoli has reopened after a two-week closure meant to reset and rebrand the lauded Santa Monica restaurant.
Inside the hip LA golf gathering for those 'who were never invited - but always belonged.'

Staying In

50 years after Marshal Matt Dillon's last draw, Gunsmoke is a streaming hit.
Here's a recipe for Sandy Ho's Napa cabbage chicken salad.
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The entertainment industry in Hollywood is grappling with the current political climate, as some fear it may lead to decreased production due to potential immigration-related disruptions.
The sports world has also been impacted, with athletes and coaches speaking out against the administration's policies and actions, using their platforms to advocate for change.
The health sector is working diligently to ensure the safety of everyone amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, while also dealing with the additional strain caused by the administration's handling of immigration-related matters.
The culture and art community in Los Angeles has been active in protesting the administration's immigration crackdown, using various forms of expression to voice their concerns and demand change.
The business community in California, particularly in industries like tech and tourism, is worried about the potential economic consequences of the administration's actions, as well as the negative impact on their workforce.
War-and-conflicts experts are closely monitoring the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, as concerns about the potential for increased conflict and instability grow under the current administration.
In the realm of general news, there has been an increased focus on fact-checking and verifying information, as misinformation and disinformation continue to spread rapidly.
Crime-and-justice journalists are following the situation closely, examining the impact of the administration's actions on criminal activity and civil rights in the United States.
Politicians across the political spectrum are grappling with the complex implications of the current political climate, working to find solutions that will address the concerns of their constituents while also upholding democratic values and norms.

Historian pondering over whether this past week marked a significant shift in the tide of fascist movements.