L.A. Tenants Urge Rent Moratorium After ICE Raids Disrupt Local Businesses

L.A. Tenants Urge Rent Moratorium After ICE Immigration Raids Disrupt Local Businesses — People’s world

The Los Angeles Tenants Union (LATU) is demanding a rent moratorium due to the escalating fear caused by ongoing immigration enforcement operations. As federal agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intensify their efforts in the region, many residents, particularly self-employed immigrants, have been staying home to avoid detention. This has impacted local businesses and could make it difficult for tenants to pay rent, with many already struggling due to the fear of raids.

Read: Florida’s Condo Reform Aims to Ease Owner Burdens Starting July 1

Immigrant Workers Affected

At a news conference, LATU representatives stated that the ongoing immigration operations have had a devastating impact on businesses, particularly in areas with high immigrant populations. Many immigrant workers, fearing detention, have opted to stay home, even if it means losing income. “We know that many tenants will not be able to pay their rent come July 1,” said a LATU representative, who remains undocumented. “Because this militarization of our community has closed down businesses, taken away street vendors, separated families, and then people cannot pay their rent.”

Also read: Philadelphia Proposes Changes to Security Deposit, Application Fees for Renter

Nationwide Immigration Operations

The crackdown on unauthorized immigration has extended across the country, with L.A. County being one of the hardest-hit regions. Internal government data reveals that over 59,000 people are currently detained nationwide, setting a likely record. President Trump has defended the operations, claiming that they aim to curb what he calls “illegal immigration” and its alleged benefits to Democratic cities. However, no substantial evidence has been provided to back these claims.

L.A. County’s Emergency Motion

In response to these concerns, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors recently passed an emergency motion. This motion aims to measure and study the economic impact of immigration enforcement operations throughout the year. The study will include workforce losses, the sectors affected, and the economic toll of property damage and curfews.

Also read: President Trump’s Rose Garden Makeover Replaces Historic Lawn with Gravel

Business Impact on Local Economy

Business owners in the region have reported a significant decline in revenue, with some seeing only 20% of their usual income in recent weeks. Areas reliant on foot traffic, such as the Fashion District and Little Tokyo, have been particularly affected. One concerned community member remarked, “Our businesses are struggling. Entrepreneurship is at a standstill. Fear has taken a toll on our society and our local economy.”

Rent Strike and City Action

In light of these hardships, the LATU is organizing a rent strike on July 1. The union is calling for a citywide day of action, encouraging community members to participate in a protest and demand that the city impose a rent moratorium. The goal is to draw attention to the impact that immigration enforcement is having on tenants’ ability to meet their rent obligations.

Also read: Newhouse Threatens ‘No Vote’ if GOP Budget Revives Land Sales

City Officials’ Response

The office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has not responded to requests for comment regarding the LATU’s call for a moratorium. As the issue continues to escalate, community leaders and business owners alike are urging city officials to take action to address the economic strain caused by the heightened enforcement.

Ongoing Tensions

The situation is further complicated by protests and public actions, including a blockade of the Sixth Street Bridge by apparent ICE protesters. With tensions rising, local lawmakers are under increasing pressure to balance enforcement actions with the welfare of the community.