Immigration Protests in Los Angeles; Korean American Community Raises Concerns
California National Guard troops were deployed to the streets of Los Angeles on June 8 as protests over President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement entered a third day. The deployment, ordered by the Trump administration, was condemned as unlawful by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, who called for the immediate withdrawal of the 2,000 troops.
Protesters clashed with police in several areas of the city following a series of federal immigration raids that began on June 6. The raids targeted parts of downtown Los Angeles, including the fashion district ? locally known as the “Jobber Market” ? where many Korean American-owned wholesale clothing stores operate.
Authorities said the National Guard’s mission was limited to protecting federal property and personnel. U.S. Northern Command reported that 300 troops were stationed at three locations across Los Angeles. Videos taken downtown showed Guard members and Department of Homeland Security officers pushing back demonstrators outside a federal building.
The Los Angeles Police Department declared multiple rallies “unlawful assemblies,” citing instances of protesters throwing bottles, concrete projectiles, and other objects. At least 10 people were arrested on June 8. Officers on horseback attempted to disperse crowds while a group of demonstrators blocked the 101 Freeway. Some shouted “Shame on you!” at police, carrying Mexican flags and signs denouncing U.S. immigration authorities.
In a social media post, Trump called the demonstrators “violent, insurrectionist mobs” and directed federal officials to take “all such action necessary” to stop what he described as “riots.” The White House rejected Newsom’s characterization of the troop deployment, saying the violence and chaos warranted a federal response.
The Korean American Federation of Los Angeles (KAFLA), a nonprofit serving the Korean American community since 1962, criticized the raids as “unilateral and heavy-handed.” The group said individuals with limited English or those unable to produce identification immediately were reportedly detained without due process.
“These actions by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) disregard proper legal procedures,” KAFLA said in a statement. “We urgently call on our local elected officials to take action.”
Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, D-Calif., whose district includes many Korean American businesses, said she was closely monitoring the situation. Despite concerns, the Korean Consulate General in Los Angeles reported that no Korean nationals or Korean Americans were among those arrested.
Luis Apolo Staff Reporter teen/1750661751/1613367592
1. What date did the protests enter their third day?
2. Who condemned the National Guard deployment?
3. Why did KAFLA criticize the immigration raids?
4. What did Trump call the demonstrators?
1. What would you do if you saw an unfair situation?
2. Do you think protests can bring change?
3. Why is it important to protect legal rights?
4. What should people do when laws feel unfair?
California National Guard troops were deployed to the streets of Los Angeles on June 8 as protests over President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement entered a third day. The deployment, ordered by the Trump administration, was condemned as unlawful by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, who called for the immediate withdrawal of the 2,000 troops.
In a social media post, Trump called the demonstrators “violent, insurrectionist mobs” and directed federal officials to take “all such action necessary” to stop what he described as “riots.” The White House rejected Newsom’s characterization of the troop deployment, saying the violence and chaos warranted a federal response.
