DTLA demonstrators protest Trump's proposed deportation plans
LOS ANGELES - Hundreds of pro-migrant protesters gathered outside the ICE federal detention center Wednesday in downtown Los Angeles.
The protest took place on International Migrants Day, about one month before President-Elect Donald Trump takes office with highly publicized deportation plans.
"[We want] a sanctuary ordinance in every city," said an event organizer.
Trump’s inauguration is now about one month away. Throughout his campaign, he promised to carry out one of "the largest deportation programs" ever.
"There’s a lot of uncertainty and a lot of fear in the community," said Flor Martinez Zaragoza.
Martinez Zaragoza is from San Jose but is visiting LA for the protest on International Migrants Day.
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"[My goal is] to stand in solidarity but also as somebody undocumented, somebody with DACA, my own rights are at risk," said Martinez Zaragoza. "I’m not afraid, but I know a lot of people that are. I’m just here to show them they’re not alone. There’s people fighting back."
Earlier this month, Los Angeles officially passed a sanctuary city ordinance. The ordinance is designed to prevent city resources from being used to help enforce federal immigration laws.
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Trump’s "Border Czar, Tom Homan, has promised to fight back against sanctuary cities. He said they’ll prioritize criminals and national security threats for deportation.
"People that commit crimes should be held responsible," said Angelica Salas. "I also believe deportation, for many of our people, is a sentence enhancement."
Protesters say they’re going to continue to speak out against deportation efforts.
"We’re ready to continue the American traditions of resistance and protest," said an organizer.