In downtown Las Vegas, a protest took place against the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement tactics, specifically those of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This event was part of a larger wave of demonstrations occurring across the country. The protest began at the intersection of South Las Vegas Boulevard and East Clark Avenue, where participants carried American and Mexican flags and signs with messages such as “No human is illegal.”
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department declared the gathering unlawful, citing engagement in illegal activities, though specifics were not initially provided. Around 9:30 p.m., police used tear gas and projectiles to disperse the crowd, which led to chaos as people ran and screamed. This action raised concerns about First Amendment rights, with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Nevada highlighting the issue of using force against protesters.
Some protesters, like Serenity Vasquez and Matteline Becker, expressed their motivations for attending the demonstration. Vasquez, from a Latino family, wanted to show support for immigrant communities, while Becker felt it was important to use her privilege to amplify the voices of those who could not safely protest. Stephanie Gentry, one of the event organizers, emphasized solidarity with communities affected by recent enforcement actions in Southern California.
The protests are part of a broader response to ICE operations and President Trump’s decision to deploy military forces in Los Angeles following significant demonstrations there. These protests are expected to continue nationwide.
