ICE raids criticized by a Filipino-American authorities for lacking human compassion
In a series of recent events, ICE raids have been a contentious issue in the cities of Artesia and Los Angeles, California. The operations have prompted discussions about public safety, community trust, and the presence of armed enforcement in public areas.
In Artesia, the city has been targeted by ICE, according to former Mayor Melissa Ramoso. Two employees were detained during the first raid at a local car wash, which has raised concerns among community leaders and residents. Ramoso has been vocal about the issue, expressing her opposition to ICE raids and emphasizing the need for due process. She cautioned community members that federal agents cannot seek out and detain people without a signed warrant by a judge.
The Artesia City Council, with Ramoso as a prominent member, has shown strong opposition to ICE raids. Ramoso has shared instances where ICE agents have returned without warrants and were asked to leave private property. She has also highlighted a lack of humanity in the operations and called for an end to these raids.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has not made direct statements regarding her position on ICE raids in the provided search results. However, it is worth noting that Los Angeles has traditionally supported sanctuary policies, which aim to protect undocumented immigrants from federal enforcement actions. Historically, the city has shown solidarity with immigrant communities, and there have been calls from local officials to end ICE raids.
The most recent ICE operation took place at MacArthur Park, where a heavily armed ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) task force, accompanied by approximately 90 California National Guard troops, descended on the park. The deployment of armed vehicles and mounted troops was met with criticism from both Ramoso and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who described the operation as "outrageous and un-American".
Filipino immigrant groups Tanggol Migrante Network and the Filipino Migrant Center condemned the MacArthur Park incident, saying it "normalizes violence against migrants". Federal officers in armored Humvees and on horseback swept through the park, which is near a children's summer camp, prompting the group to be moved indoors.
In response to the ongoing ICE raids, Ramoso stated that the city will be taking a formal stance in the coming weeks. Los Angeles city officials have joined regional legal efforts to curb aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. The incidents have sparked widespread fear and reduced community activity, particularly in areas like Artesia's Little India.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass arrived at MacArthur Park and criticized the operation, stating there is no plan other than fear, chaos, and politics. She joined Ramoso at an event with other Southern California elected leaders, where they discussed the impact of ICE raids on local communities.
Ramoso reiterated that everyone deserves due process and it cannot be the norm to profile individuals. She described the detained man, whom she sees nearly every day when leaving her home to go to work, as a hardworking member of the community who poses no threat. The ICE raids along the West Coast have prompted calls for change and a reevaluation of immigration enforcement tactics.
- Artesia City Council, with former Mayor Melissa Ramoso as a prominent member, has expressed strong opposition to ICE raids, voicing concerns about due process and a lack of humanity in the operations.
- In the city of Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass has joined regional legal efforts to curb aggressive immigration enforcement tactics, criticizing ICE raids for causing fear and division within local communities.
