Boyle Heights residents reclaim the streets through dance and protest

Communities held “Reclaim Our Streets” events across Los Angeles on Tuesday, July 1, in response to mass immigration raids.

In Boyle Heights, an estimated 250 to 350 people attended the event at Mariachi Plaza organized by InnerCity Struggle, We Are California, Community Power Collective, Eastside LEADS, Proyecto Pastoral, Legacy LA and other eastside organizations.

The event included music and dancing, resources, speakers and a procession in honor of those who have been impacted, including Emma de Paz, a street vendor with multiple health conditions who has been detained by ICE since June 19. 

The event opened with traditional Danza Azteca followed by Latin music ensemble Grupo La Verdad, closing with Ozomatli. “Let’s move our bodies and show the world how we reclaim our streets here in East L.A. - with joy, good music and dancing,” proclaimed the event emcees. 

Jennifer Dueñas was born and raised in Boyle Heights and attended the event with her five-year-old son. “I want to teach my son how to use his voice. As American citizens born here, we have to stand up for those who don't have a voice,” she said. “I don't think that it’s about politics or picking a side — it’s about humanity.”

Victor, who chose not to share his last name, is 79 years old and has lived in the US for 32 years. “We have to celebrate together, because united we’re stronger,” he said. “That’s why I’m here with all my people, celebrating here in Boyle Heights.”

We Are California provided free white tee-shirts to attendees that said “Come for one of us, come for all of us.” Attendees could access Know Your Rights resources provided by Inclusive Action for the City and InnerCity Struggle. There was a sign-making station and free snacks and water were also provided. 

A food cart was stationed at the plaza adorned with flowers and photos of Emma de Paz. Around 5:15 p.m. a procession left Mariachi Plaza to Adventist Health White Memorial Hospital, where her brother Carlos Barrera de Paz spoke about how masked agents took her from the street. “Let me tell you: this isn't the United States that I’ve known for so many years,” he said. “This government is using inhumane tactics. They’re tactics that are not of this country. These tactics are used only by terrorists.”

Emma de Paz suffers from hepatitis B, diabetes and high blood pressure. Her brother, described how she has not received adequate medication or food in detention, and was not able to shower or change clothes for eight days. She has now been transferred to Adelanto Detention Center, which has long been criticized for its inadequate medical care and inhumane conditions. 

“We’re going to keep fighting for our rights, because being here illegally is not a crime. It’s a civil law,” he said. 

As he gave his speech, a group of musicians played music towards the back of the procession with traditional baile folklórico dancers. 

Father Brendan Busse, pastor of Dolores Mission Church, led a blessing for the family of Emma de Paz and all those in the hospital. “Streets are a place for the people. Streets are a place for joy. Streets are a place for families,” he said. “They’re not a place for fear of terrorism, as we've seen in these last few weeks.”

The procession returned to Mariachi Plaza where speakers and music continued. Henri Perez, executive director of InnerCity Struggle, laid out demands for the immediate removal of militarized federal agents from the streets, reunification of families and an eviction moratorium and rent freeze due to the financial impact on immigrant families. 

“Now is the time for unity. Now is the time for multiracial solidarity,” he said. “We are bonded together in this fight, and we will fight to reclaim our streets.”

Raquel Román, executive director of Proyecto Pastoral at Dolores Mission, thanked the safety volunteers with the Boyle Heights Rapid Response Network who were at the perimeters of the event. 

“Our community continues to be targeted, but I know we will not break,” she said. “And today, being out here with all of you, brings me hope. Our community is hope.”