Why it matters:
The clash highlights intensifying opposition to stepped-up immigration raids, which increasingly target long-time residents and people without criminal records.
The big picture:
The Trump administration has significantly increased the presence of immigration officers in major U.S. cities as part of a push to raise deportation numbers to what it calls historic levels. According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) data, more than two-thirds of the roughly 53,000 people detained as of November 15 had no criminal convictions.
What they are saying:
Trump has argued that heightened enforcement is necessary to restore order to the immigration system, even as critics say the policy sweeps up families and long-established community members who pose no threat.
Key points:
• In Lower Manhattan, protesters linked arms and attempted to prevent federal agents from exiting a parking garage.
• Some demonstrators threw roadway planters at federal vehicles, prompting officers to use what appeared to be pepper spray.
• Saturday’s confrontation followed weeks of nationwide protests against immigration raids, including a major demonstration in nearby Foley Square last month.
• That earlier protest came one day after a chaotic ICE raid in Chinatown’s Canal Street, a dense commercial area known for its street vendors.
Go deeper:
Saturday’s arrests reflect a widening pattern of direct standoffs between enforcement officers and activists opposing the administration’s immigration strategy. The increase of federal agents in urban areas has amplified fears among immigrant communities, including long-time residents with no criminal history who are now encountering a more aggressive enforcement posture.
Millions Rally in ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump Across U.S.
M.Majdi - Mahboubeh Habibi
