A Los Angeles City Council member has accused Home Depot of being ‘complicit’ with ICE raids, vowing to oppose a proposed new store in Eagle Rock. The accusation comes after multiple raids at Home Depot locations in the area, leading to arrests of immigrants. Councilmember Ysabel Jurado criticized the company for its silence on the matter and linked the raids to the store’s refusal to speak out against ICE operations. Home Depot claims it is not privy to such activities.
Home Depot plans to open a new superstore in Eagle Rock, demolishing a former Macy’s store. The project has sparked controversy over potential impacts on the local community and safety concerns. Jurado, a former tenants’ rights attorney, is the daughter of undocumented Filipino immigrants and has vowed to oppose the construction, citing concerns about violence in the neighborhood.
The situation escalated following a recent raid at the Westlake Home Depot location, where ICE agents conducted an operation that resulted in the arrest of at least 15 individuals. Surveillance video captured by the Los Angeles Times shows the aftermath of the raid, depicting federal agents in tactical gear pursuing street vendors. This incident has drawn significant public attention, with calls for greater oversight and accountability.
Jurado and Home Depot have yet to respond to each other’s statements, with the councilmember emphasizing her commitment to protecting the local community. The controversy highlights broader tensions between immigrant communities and law enforcement actions, raising questions about the role of private businesses in such conflicts.
As the debate continues, the outcome of this conflict could have lasting implications for both the local business environment and the community’s relations with immigration authorities.