ICE targets immigrants based on appearance, claims Rep. Jimmy Gomez
- Rep. Jimmy Gomez expressed concerns about an ICE raid that took place near MacArthur Park, Los Angeles.
- He claimed that ICE is not targeting criminals but individuals based on their appearance, creating fear within the community.
- Gomez and local officials are calling for a reassessment of immigration policies to protect immigrant communities.
In recent days, an immigration raid occurred near MacArthur Park in Los Angeles, California, involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and National Guard troops. Representative Jimmy Gomez (D-CA) spoke on CNN about the situation, expressing his concerns for the community. He highlighted that ICE is not focusing on apprehending actual criminals or gang members, such as those associated with MS-13, but instead is arresting hard-working immigrants. The presence of law enforcement and military-like vehicles, as well as agents, in the area contributed to a feeling of intimidation among residents. Representative Gomez recounted the fears sparked by this military presence, drawing parallels to his experiences seeing troops abroad. He emphasized that this display has created a deep-seated anxiety within the community, particularly among people of color. Gomez articulated a sentiment that many individuals feel they could be detained, regardless of their legal status, simply based on their appearance — particularly if they do not conform to the stereotype of a