Los Angeles saw a wave of July 4th activities, but not the kind traditionally associated with fireworks and barbecues. This year, thousands of protesters took to the streets, rallying against both the current presidential administration and the wider implications of federal immigration policies. Organized by the 50501 Movement, the demonstration, branded as the Free America march, began at City Hall in the morning and culminated with a protest at the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in the afternoon.
The 50501 Movement, which planned the downtown march, vocally accused President Trump of trying to transform the nation's democracy into an autocracy. "When you look at Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, Netanyahu’s bombing of Gaza, ICE’s raids in Los Angeles, or Trump’s Alligator Auschwitz," march organizer Hunter Dunn told KTLA, "you are seeing just one part of a bigger oppressive picture. On July 4th, our community is coming together to demand an end to genocides, occupations, and oppression at home and around the world." Meanwhile, as demonstrators gathered, normal Independence Day celebrations across Southern California were canceled, with many officials wanting to preemptively protect citizens during the immigration raids.
The protests highlighted concerns over the aggressive techniques applied by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Angelenos united to express their opposition to a series of raids that had disrupted daily life in the city. According to community leaders quoted by FOX 11, recent ICE actions included unexpected appearances at elementary school graduations, courthouses, and workers' gatherings at locations like Home Depot.
The afternoon protest at the federal building turned confrontational when federal agents and National Guard troops employed less lethal munitions against protesters, as reported by CBS News Los Angeles. Authorities later declared a dispersal order, which subsequently caused the protesters to peacefully disperse and temporarily block several lanes on Alameda Street. The protest event, which started peacefully, also saw demonstrators proudly carrying both Mexican and American flags as they marched through the streets.
As of now, the number of demonstrators attending the events is estimated at around 25,000, reflecting a significant portion of Los Angeles' population actively engaged in ongoing political and societal debate. Despite the tension, aerial images captured by SkyFOX, as mentioned in a FOX 11 report, showcased a diverse crowd of individuals, some in colorful attire, all united in their stand against what they deem to be oppressive governmental policies.
