A new wave of immigration raids has set off alarms in Hispanic communities in California. In Los Angeles, multiple U.S. citizens of Latino origin have been detained during Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE) raids, prompting strong allegations of racial profiling and excessive use of force by agents.
The operations, which began in early June and could last for at least 60 days, have already resulted in hundreds of arrests, including of people with U.S. citizenship. Activists denounce that many are intercepted solely for their appearance or for speaking Spanish, without any legal cause to justify it. One of the most shocking cases is that of Cary López Alvarado, a 23-year-old pregnant woman who was arrested along with her partner and cousin. Despite declaring that she was a citizen and showing evidence, she was chained hand and foot and taken to a processing center. She was subsequently released in pain and had to be hospitalized; four days later she gave birth. Her partner, the main provider for the household, was deported to Texas, which has left the family in a situation of economic and legal uncertainty.
More cases, more outrage
The community also reacted with outrage at the arrest of Adrian Andrew Martinez, a young Walmart worker, who was violently arrested by agents while defending a co-worker.
Despite witnesses claiming that Martinez was a U.S. citizen, he was grabbed by the neck and thrown to the ground in the middle of a store full of customers.
A new wave of immigration raids has raised alarms
Another viral case of racial profiling was that of Javier Ramirez, arrested in front of his business in Montebello while shouting “I have my passport, I am a citizen!”.
His arrest sparked a wave of protests on social networks and mobilizations in his city.
In all cases, ICE alleges that the detentions were for “obstruction,” although the videos and testimonies point to an aggressive and discriminatory attitude.
Legal defense and community organization
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Lawyers and civil rights organizations have begun offering free legal assistance to victims of these racially profiled raids.
People are urged not to sign any documents without legal presence and to keep video evidence if they feel threatened.
Latino communities have also organized in community centers, churches and schools to disseminate information about rights during an immigration raid.
Knowing that everyone in the U.S., regardless of immigration status, has the right to remain silent and not be detained without cause is key to avoiding abuses.
Why should this matter to you?
If you are a citizen, resident or are in the immigration process, it is essential that you know your rights.
Racial profiling is not only illegal, but also erodes trust between the Latino community and law enforcement.
These raids are leaving families separated, businesses closed and people traumatized.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
