Los Angeles Protest: Peaceful March Ends in Tear Gas and Clashes

Los Angeles Protest Turns Violent: Tear Gas and Clashes Mark Immigration Rights Demonstration A peaceful demonstration in downtown Los Angeles on June 15, 2025, took a violent turn when police used tear gas and force to disperse a crowd protesting against immigration raids and family separations. The protest, part of a week-long series of actions, drew thousands of participants, including many families and U.S. citizens. Video footage shows a tense confrontation between police on horseback and a group of protesters. One particularly jarring scene depicts an elderly man being shoved by a police officer on horseback. "They just started pushing people around, using tear gas, even pushing down an older man," said one witness who asked to remain anonymous. Catherine, a daughter of Mexican immigrants, shared her personal story, "Thirteen years ago, ICE took my father away. Today I'm here so that no other young person has to go through what I did." Her words reflect the deep emotional impact of the immigration issue on families. The Los Angeles Police Department later released a statement claiming that some protesters were throwing rocks and other objects at officers, prompting the use of tear gas. However, the video footage shows the use of tear gas before any such actions were visibly apparent. The incident highlights the complexities and sensitivities surrounding immigration enforcement and the ongoing struggle for justice and fair treatment of immigrants. Despite the violence, the protest demonstrated the resilience and determination of those advocating for immigration rights. The large turnout and passionate testimonies show the profound impact of these policies on countless lives.