Signs against ICE at a rally (Photo – Staff)
The City of Monterey Park has taken a stance against recent immigration enforcement operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that have raised concerns over civil rights violations. In an effort to protect its residents and uphold human dignity, the City Council voted unanimously to intervene in a federal lawsuit challenging what it calls “indiscriminate” immigration raids targeting individuals based on race and ethnicity.
By News Desk
On July 2, 2025, the City Council authorized the Monterey Park City Attorney to take all necessary actions to support the plaintiffs in Perdomo, et al. v. Noem, et al., a case filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The lawsuit, filed on the same day, accuses federal authorities of conducting unlawful raids since early June 2025. According to the complaint, these operations have led to arbitrary detentions, due process violations, and inhumane treatment, including the denial of access to legal counsel.
The City’s decision to intervene is a strong condemnation of what it sees as discriminatory enforcement tactics and a pledge to protect constitutional and human rights. Monterey Park’s stance comes amid growing concern over federal immigration policies and rising fears within immigrant communities both in California and nationwide.
“We stand with our residents. The fear and uncertainty caused by these recent ICE operations are unacceptable,” said a statement from the Monterey Park City Council. “Our City has always prided itself on its diversity, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their immigration status, feels safe and respected.”
Monterey Park’s intervention in the lawsuit is part of a larger wave of opposition from various groups and municipalities pushing back against what they view as overreach in federal immigration enforcement. The City has also expressed strong support for two key state legislative measures aimed at curbing these practices: Senate Bill 627, the No Secret Police Act, and Senate Bill 805, the No Vigilantes Act. Both bills are designed to promote transparency and prevent local law enforcement from assisting in federal immigration operations. The City has pledged to formally support both pieces of legislation.
Importantly, the Monterey Park Police Department has made it clear that it will not participate in immigration enforcement. The department does not inquire about residents’ immigration status and refuses to take part in federal immigration raids. The City is urging residents to reach out to trusted community organizations and legal support services for assistance during these challenging times.
The City’s commitment to safeguarding its immigrant population is deeply rooted in its values and history. Monterey Park is home to a large and vibrant immigrant community that contributes significantly to the city’s cultural and economic life. The City Council has reaffirmed that immigrants will continue to be welcomed and supported in Monterey Park.
For legal assistance or immigration resources, the City has compiled a list of local support organizations, available on the City’s website at www.montereypark.ca.gov/immigrationresources.
Leave a Reply