In recent months, Pasadena has become a focal point of tension following the Eaton fire in nearby Altadena, with federal authorities ramping up their presence in the city. The situation escalated when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were reportedly lodged in local hotels, prompting protests and community unrest.
Reports of ICE agents spotted in Pasadena led to widespread discussion on social media, although city officials emphasized that no immigration raids were actively taking place. Pasadena City spokesperson Lisa Derderian clarified that the city was aware of federal agents residing in at least two hotels and even frequenting local businesses, like coffee shops.
“As you’re aware, ICE does not coordinate with our City so we quickly wanted to dispel rumors that we were not aware of any ‘raids,'” said Derderian. She urged locals to avoid assuming that every marked federal vehicle was part of an immigration enforcement operation, especially given the community’s need for healing after the recent fire.
Pasadena’s mayor, Victor Gordo, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the anxiety that reports of federal agents created within the local community. “We understand the anxiety and fear that these reports can create for many in our community,” Gordo remarked, emphasizing the importance of a calm response.
Protests emerged swiftly, with city officials among those rallying against the federal presence. Councilman Rick Cole participated in a rally outside an AC Hotel, stating on social media, “People have gathered across from the AC Hotel to make clear their vicious attack on workers and families are not welcome in Pasadena. I stand with them. Reasonable people can disagree about Federal immigration policy, but raids as a policy designed to terrorize our neighbors… is an attack on American values.”
By Monday morning, life in Pasadena appeared relatively normal with little disruption. Hotel staff reported a quiet night despite the surrounding tensions, and only a flyer denouncing ICE was found on a balcony.
Meanwhile, a significant police presence was noted in downtown Los Angeles, where officers from various police departments gathered in anticipation of protests. Local citizens and tourists alike expressed shock at the law enforcement activity, likening the scene to a surreal reality that was amplified online.
Eric Wright and his wife, Margaux Cowan-Banker, who were visiting from Knoxville, Tennessee, commented on how the portrayal of the city as chaotic contradicted their experience. “People back where we live are going to completely be horrified… I’m sure they think it’s a war zone here,” Cowan-Banker said, only to add that she understood the motivations behind the protests against perceived injustices.
As the protests continued, leaders in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) took proactive steps, particularly as federal immigration arrests coincided with graduation season. Supt. Alberto Carvalho announced plans to establish safety perimeters around graduation venues to minimize anxiety among families about potential immigration enforcement actions. Families would also have the option to watch events virtually to mitigate concerns.
Carvalho highlighted the situation, stating, “There are two schools in our community that within a couple of blocks we see federal vans parked. No action has been taken, but we interpret those actions as actions of intimidation.” He called for families to stay updated regarding contact details and emergency plans amid growing fear of detentions.
In the political arena, President Donald Trump’s remarks suggested escalating tensions between federal and state authorities. When asked about California Governor Gavin Newsom inviting arrest, Trump replied that the governor’s actions warranted federal criticism. Newsom was quick to respond on social media, characterizing the situation as a concerning step towards authoritarianism. Thus, political narratives intensified, with accusations flying from both sides about the federal response and local governance.
As tensions mounted in Los Angeles, significant property damage was noted at City Hall, where workers began boarding up broken windows and assessing damages. Graffiti littered the exterior, symbolizing the unrest simmering in the city amid the escalating standoff.
Federal authorities charged David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union California, with obstruction related to an immigration enforcement raid. Huerta, arrested during a protest, faced a felony charge that could result in significant prison time. His arrest provoked a wave of criticism from labor leaders, state senators, and advocacy groups calling for his release.
California Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla called for a review of Huerta’s arrest, denouncing the treatment of a U.S. citizen and union leader and emphasizing the importance of maintaining citizens’ rights during federal operations. Their request for a response highlights ongoing concerns over accountability within federal law enforcement agencies.
In a broader context, the deployment of nearly 2,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles raised alarms among state officials. Governor Newsom announced plans to sue, claiming that President Trump’s call to mobilize the National Guard without state consent breached state sovereignty. The potential implications of this unprecedented federal action represent a significant escalation in the ongoing saga of immigration enforcement in California.
As the situation unfolded in Los Angeles, it becomes painfully apparent that the interplay between federal immigration enforcement, community unrest, and political maneuvering will continue to shape the narrative in Pasadena and surrounding areas. The protests, federal actions, and the collective response from local leaders illustrate the complex intersection of policy and lived realities for many communities throughout the state.
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/california/live/los-angeles-protests-immigration-raid-updates
