The Latinx Caucus of the Green Party of the United States has issued a forceful condemnation of what it calls “violent and militarized” Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that have shaken communities across California in recent days. The raids, carried out with paramilitary precision in cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, led to the detention of dozens of individuals—sparking outrage and renewed calls for justice from immigrant rights advocates.
In a statement released Monday, the Latinx Caucus described the coordinated actions as a campaign of “state-sponsored intimidation” designed to criminalize immigrant identity and spread fear among working-class families. According to the statement, more than 40 people were detained in Los Angeles alone, with raids targeting business hubs such as the Fashion District as well as restaurants and homes.
“This was not about law enforcement,” the statement reads. “It was a deliberate escalation of paramilitary tactics—ordered under an administration bent on dehumanization and division.”
The raids were further intensified by the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to California by President Donald Trump, an act carried out without the consent of the state’s governor. The Caucus condemned the move as authoritarian and unconstitutional.
“California Will Not Stand for This”
The statement invokes the defiance of Iranian-American journalist Ariana Afshar, who denounced the raids in a viral video: “California will not stand for this. Neither will we,” echoed the Latinx Caucus.
In San Francisco, at least 15 individuals were reportedly detained during routine ICE check-ins. Disturbingly, one of those detained was a 3-year-old child. Families were allegedly held overnight without access to food or clarity about their immigration status, raising alarm bells among legal advocates and civil rights groups.
“Targeting the Soul of America Itself”
California is home to the largest undocumented population in the U.S. and has long been a symbol of immigrant inclusion and solidarity. The Green Party’s Latinx Caucus emphasized that immigrants are not guests but foundational contributors to American society.
“Our communities do not ask for permission to exist,” the statement declares. “They labor tirelessly in fields, factories, and service industries. Targeting them is not only inhumane and counterproductive—it is targeting the soul of America itself.”
A Call to Action
The Caucus is urging elected officials across the West Coast to take immediate steps to shield affected communities. Their demands include:
- Reaffirmation and strengthening of sanctuary city policies
- Legal and humanitarian support for detainees
- Non-cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities
To community members facing these threats, the Caucus offered words of solidarity: “You are not alone. Know your rights. Connect with legal aid. Join organizations rooted in defense of our people.”
The statement concludes with a clear message: “The Latinx Caucus of the Green Party stands in solidarity with all those affected by these raids and remains committed to fighting for a just and equitable society for all.”
