Several Fourth of July celebrations in the Los Angeles area have been canceled due to fears of federal immigration enforcement raids.
The big picture: Last month’s protests in Los Angeles sparked nationwide outrage over the Trump administration’s aggressive deportation policy.
The administration has continued to target Los Angeles (and other parts of California), suing the city this week, claiming that its sanctuary policies resulted in “lawlessness, rioting, looting, and vandalism.”
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have conducted deportation operations in Los Angeles County communities with sizable immigrant populations.
For example, there have been raids targeting day laborers near Home Depot locations across the county.
Protesters have also attempted to enter Dodger Stadium (which ICE has denied) during a game featuring a sizable Mexican American fanbase.
Out of caution, city leaders and organizers have decided to cancel Independence Day celebrations and other summer events for the general public, particularly in Hispanic-majority communities.
For example, the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation has canceled the East Los Angeles Rock’in 4th of July celebration, as well as other summer events.
“Out of caution, and in response to recent ICE enforcement activity impacting our communities, we are prioritizing safety and well-being of our residents, visitors, and staff,” according to the department.
Bell Gardens, Boyle Heights, Cudahy, El Sereno, Huntington Park, Lincoln Heights, and Whittier have all cancelled or postponed their celebrations.
Organizers have canceled Los Angeles County’s Gloria Molina Grand Park Summer Block Party “out of an abundance of caution and in light of ongoing events across L.A. county.”
