Tensions erupted in Los Angeles on Monday as thousands of protesters took to the streets in a dramatic show of resistance against what they describe as increasingly aggressive immigration policies. The demonstration escalated sharply when activists shut down the 101 Freeway, set vehicles on fire, and clashed with police—prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to deploy the National Guard to restore order.
The protests, organized under the viral hashtag #LAImmigrationProtests, were initially intended as peaceful rallies across multiple neighborhoods but quickly turned chaotic near downtown, where a core group of demonstrators blocked both directions of the freeway, ignited tires and abandoned cars, and engaged in confrontations with law enforcement.
What Sparked the Protests?
The protests come in response to recent federal immigration raids and a controversial bill passed last week that expands state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement agencies. Critics say the law will lead to more deportations, family separations, and racial profiling—particularly in immigrant-heavy communities like East LA and South Central.
“We’re not just protesting a bill,” said protester Marisol Reyes, a UCLA student and DACA recipient. “We’re protesting years of fear, detentions, and the stripping of human rights from people who call this country home.”
Violence Erupts on the Freeway
Around 3 p.m. local time, a large group of protesters marched onto the 101 Freeway near the Hollywood Boulevard exit, bringing traffic to a complete halt. Eyewitnesses described a scene of confusion and fear as demonstrators waved flags, held banners reading “No Human Is Illegal” and “Abolish ICE”, and refused to disperse despite police warnings.
Within minutes, multiple vehicles were set on fire, sending plumes of thick black smoke into the LA skyline. Videos circulating on social media show protesters surrounding police cruisers, throwing debris, and tagging overpasses with political messages.
Law Enforcement and National Guard Respond
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) responded with riot gear, tear gas, and rubber bullets in an attempt to push back demonstrators. By 6 p.m., the situation had spiraled to such an extent that Governor Newsom activated the California National Guard, citing a need to protect public safety and key transportation routes.
“The right to protest is protected, but setting fires and endangering lives is not,” Newsom said in a press briefing.
“The National Guard has been deployed to assist local law enforcement and ensure the violence does not escalate further.”
By nightfall, over 60 people had been arrested, dozens injured, and multiple vehicles destroyed. The 101 Freeway remained closed in both directions as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and contain fires.
Community Reaction
Community leaders and immigrant advocacy groups voiced both support for the cause and concern over the violence.
- “People are desperate to be heard. But violence only plays into the hands of those who want to silence us,” said Alicia Mendoza, director of the LA Immigrant Solidarity Coalition.
- Others, however, defended the actions as a necessary escalation. “Peaceful protests haven’t worked. People are dying in detention centers,” said protester Mateo Vargas.
Many residents in surrounding neighborhoods reported hearing explosions, helicopters, and sirens into the early morning hours. Schools in affected districts are expected to remain closed on Tuesday.
Federal and Political Fallout
The Biden administration has not issued an official statement yet, but White House sources say federal officials are monitoring the situation closely. With the 2026 midterm elections looming and immigration once again dominating the national discourse, Monday’s events are likely to become a flashpoint in political debates across the country.
Local politicians are also divided:
- Mayor Karen Bass called for calm and emphasized a need for dialogue: “Los Angeles is a city of immigrants. We need change, but we need it through unity, not destruction.”
- Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers are demanding a federal response, accusing the state of fostering lawlessness.
What Comes Next?
With the National Guard now on the ground and more demonstrations expected throughout the week, Los Angeles braces for continued unrest. Activists say they won’t back down until the state repeals the immigration law and halts cooperation with federal deportation efforts.
For many, this protest wasn’t just a reaction—it was a warning.
“We are fighting for our lives, our families, and our future,” said Reyes. “If the system won’t listen, then we will make it impossible to ignore us.”
Written By Joe Brens
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