Protesters gathered at Fullerton’s City Hall Saturday afternoon in protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across Southern California.

Organizers led the crowd from Fullerton City Hall to the downtown district with cars and passersby cheering in support. “No Justice, No Peace,” the crowd chanted as they marched towards the city’s historic downtown. This is the latest in a series of nationwide protests condemning the Trump administration’s sweeping immigration raids across the country. 

This comes after millions gathered June 14 in support of the No Kings Rally. Thousands of cities nationwide held rallies opposing the Trump administration, citing federal overreach and corruption. The protests collided with Trump’s military parade in Washington D.C. celebrating both the army’s 250th anniversary and Trump’s 79th birthday.

Protesters marching from City Hall to Downtown. Photo by Oscar Ortega.

Southern California is facing the brunt of the Trump Administration’s immigration efforts. Federal ICE agents have conducted raids across the county, stoking fear within Orange County’s large immigrant population. 

Sanctuary cities have faced heavy federal presence as California’s National Guard continue to occupy their downtown areas. Downtown Santa Ana in particular continues to see heavy federal presence within its streets. 

Anger from Santa Ana residents grows as the city continues to subdue protests with heavy police presence. Residents are calling for the resignation of city Mayor Valerie Amezcua for the city’s response to ICE raids and the National Guard. 

In contrast, Anaheim is employing a mutual aid program aiming to assist families impacted by immigration sweeps. City residents are advocating for an ICE alert system but Anaheim city officials are cautious. Officials cite potential resistance and targeting from the administration as a result of implementing an alert system.

In addition, Orange County officials gathered June 10 to condemn The Department of Homeland Security and ICE presence within Orange County communities. 

“Federal agents have departed from President Trump’s stated goals of apprehending dangerous criminals and drug traffickers. They are now accosting and apprehending everyday workers struggling to take care of their families,” said Vincente Sarmiento, Orange County 2nd District Supervisor.

Meanwhile the Trump Administration is continuing their raids on the agricultural and hospitality industry despite recently issuing a potential pause. 

“We will continue worksite enforcement operations,” said Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs for the Department of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin in an interview with Amna Nawaz.

As Fullerton’s charter status remains the focal point of city council meetings, residents and activists continue to advocate for immigration protection.

Photo by Allison Ritto

Photo by Allison Ritto