Activists rally in El Cajon after East County immigration enforcement operation

Activists rallied in El Cajon to protest a recent federal immigration enforcement operation that targeted a local business, resulting in multiple arrests of undocumented immigrants. The demonstration, organized by Latinos en Acción, was a response to both the operation and a controversial resolution passed by the city council affirming its intent to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Mairene Branham, president of Latinos en Acción, expressed the community's distress, stating, "What has happened is just an attack on our community. " Local leaders, including Mayor Bill Wells, defended their cooperation with federal authorities, suggesting it aligns with the community's desire for law enforcement. Activists highlighted the trauma inflicted on families and emphasized the need for transparency regarding local officials' communications with federal immigration leaders.

Salvador Sarmiento of the National Day Laborer Organizing Network echoed these sentiments, stressing that community members deserve to know about their leaders' engagements with federal officials. Branham also remarked that this ongoing immigration battle has galvanized a new generation of activists ready to confront local governance. The rally underscores the deep divisions and heightened emotions surrounding immigration policy in the region.