Immigrant Defense: Faith Leaders Respond to Raids
In Los angeles, faith leaders are fighting back against increased immigration raids, demanding respect and highlighting the trauma caused by these actions. The marches, primarily organized by L.A. Voice and PICO California,advocate for the fair treatment of all immigrants,regardless of status. witnessing the impact firsthand, religious leaders share stories of families separated and communities living in fear, with some even choosing to self-deport. This article from News Directory 3 unveils the growing concern and details actions taken by religious leaders in response to the broadened definition of immigration enforcement. Discover what’s next in this developing story.
Religious leaders Protest Immigration Raids in Los Angeles
Updated June 22, 2025
More than a dozen faith leaders from diverse backgrounds marched to the federal Building in Los Angeles on Wednesday, carrying flowers and calling for an end to federal immigration raids. They contend that these actions have separated families and led to racial profiling.
The march, organized by L.A. Voice and PICO California, aimed to highlight the importance of treating immigrants with dignity and respect, irrespective of their documentation status. PICO California is the largest faith-based community organizing network in the state.
Sikh leader valarie Kaur leaves a flower at the feet of federal officers standing guard at the Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles.
(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)
The rev. Tanya Lopez of Downey Memorial Christian Church recounted witnessing plainclothes federal agents detain a member of her church in the parking lot. Despite her attempts to intervene, the individual was detained, and their whereabouts remain unknown, Lopez said.
“All of our faith traditions teach us to love our neighbor, to leave the world with less suffering than when we find it, and this is creating trauma that will be unable to be undone for generations,” Lopez said.
These federal enforcement actions have increased across Southern California, aligning with the Trump administration’s commitment to mass deportations of undocumented immigrants. While initial rhetoric focused on those with violent criminal records, the administration has broadened its definition to include anyone in the country without authorization.
The immigration raids have extended to bus stops, parking lots, farms, and factories, prompting many immigrants to hide or even self-deport.
Father Brendan Busse, a Jesuit priest at Dolores Mission Church, noted the impact of the raids on his congregation, with devoted members absent from services and others fearful of attending. He emphasized the need to provide a safe space for the community during these challenging times.
“We need to be a safe space for people, not just in our church, but in the whole neighborhood,” he said. “I can’t guarantee to anybody that we are a totally safe space, but to at least give them a sense that in the arduous moment we’re at, that we stand together.”
What’s next
The Los Angeles community and advocacy groups are expected to continue monitoring the situation and providing support to those affected by the immigration raids. Further demonstrations and legal challenges may arise in response to the ongoing enforcement actions.