Pasadena Rally Protests ICE Detentions, Raises Concerns Over Police Coordination

More than a hundred protesters gathered Monday night at a residential Pasadena intersection for a rally and vigil sponsored by the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON), following reports that as many as seven community members were detained earlier in the day by ICE immigration enforcement activity.

Two detentions were discussed during the rally—Miguel Ayala, who was reportedly taken near the corner of Raymond Avenue and Villa Street, where the protest took place that evening, and Eric Garcia, who rally organizers said was seized at a nearby Food 4 Less grocery store.

Speakers said additional cases were still being verified.

Organizers and speakers repeatedly alleged that immigration agents had targeted workers and residents in Pasadena and nearby areas earlier Monday, separating people from their families and workplaces.

José Madera, director of the Pasadena Community Job Center, who was himself arrested by Pasadena Police last week after a federal agent called police and alleged Madera was following him, referred to the actions as part of a broader pattern of enforcement he described as “terrorizing” immigrant communities, language that was echoed throughout the evening.

Ayala’s family members spoke publicly during the vigil, describing him as a construction worker and father who had been seeking work and helping with rebuilding efforts in Altadena following last year’s fire. His wife, Selena Ayala, said he was a provider for their family, while one of his daughters, Guadalupe,  told the crowd, “I just want him to come home.”

Pablo Alvarado of NDLON said the vigil was organized to show solidarity with affected families and to make visible the emotional and economic toll of the detentions.

Concerns about possible coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration agents were raised directly during the rally. Alvarado alleged there were incidents during which it appeared the Pasadena police were protecting Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

He questioned whether directives from city leadership were consistently followed by officers on the street.

Alvarado also said community leaders had recently met with Mayor Victor Gordo, Police Chief Gene Harris, and City Manager Miguel Marquez, who committed to launching an investigation into the arrest of Madera last week, and to holding a meeting with residents.

Protest leaders urged attendees to pressure City Councilmembers to ensure the investigation proceeds quickly and transparently.

Madera announced that fundraising efforts had been launched to support the families of Ayala and Garcia. Organizers said the funds would go directly to families to help cover legal and living expenses.

Alvarado emphasized community organizing, legal observation and public accountability as tools to protect vulnerable neighbors.

“It’s not a crime to observe,” he said.

The rally concluded with calls for continued vigilance, political pressure on elected officials, and sustained support for families impacted by the detentions, with Alvarado promising future vigils whenever similar incidents occur.