A progressive group in Florida is planning protests to show solidarity with Los Angeles, where recent demonstrations have seen attacks on police and various acts of vandalism. Some protesters have burned American flags and waved Mexican flags while criticizing immigration enforcement operations.
The post, which was shared in collaboration with several organizations including Occupy Florida and Florida Voices, is meant to promote a “Speed Response Protest” scheduled for Monday afternoon in front of Tampa City Hall. This event aims to align with the protests happening on the West Coast.
“We are taking to the streets in solidarity with communities across Los Angeles and the nation. The attacks from ICE must stop. This isn’t just a Florida issue; it’s a widespread concern,” the post states.
“Families are being torn apart, homes are being raided, and communities are living in fear. We refuse to stay silent while unjust actions are taken against individuals,” organizers emphasize. They claim their intentions are grounded in non-violence.
“We recognize that law enforcement will be present. However, we can’t assure the safety of individuals or their properties. Arrests may happen—we are committed to peaceful protest, but we can’t predict police reactions,” they noted.
Specifically, these leftist organizers are addressing the realities of ICE operations and arrests in Los Angeles.
In their messages, they highlight the fear felt within communities but leave out key details, such as the fact that ICE was involved in the arrest of a convicted murderer.
For example, ICE apprehended 49-year-old Cuong Chanh Phan from Vietnam during a recent operation in LA. He was part of a gang that was involved in a shooting at a graduation party in 1994 that resulted in two deaths and several injuries.
Other arrests in Los Angeles included Mexican nationals who had previous criminal convictions for offenses ranging from battery to grand theft.
