SoCal Dance Music Community Responds to ICE Raids in Los Angeles

This past weekend saw ICE conduct immigration raids in Los Angeles, sparking protests in the city and leading many in the dance music community to take action.

On Friday, June 6, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began conducting immigration raids on locations throughout Los Angeles, including in the Fashion District and in Paramount. Supported by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), these raids resulted in dozens of arrests and have sparked protests throughout LA and other parts of Southern California over the past 72 hours.

Although Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said that “the LAPD is not involved in civil immigration enforcement,” and the California Highway Patrol and LA Sheriff’s Department echoed that sentiment, all three agencies have clashed with demonstrators at protests. Additionally, according to the LA Times, the Trump administration activated over 4,000 National Guard members and announced the deployment of 700 active US Marines to respond to the protests.

That hasn’t stopped the pushback against ICE and other government agencies from local communities, which has continued early this week. This includes ravers, DJs, industry members, and more who call Los Angeles home and have joined the protests or supported them by sharing information with their followers.

Many artists have begun speaking up and using their platforms to support immigrants and the anti-ICE demonstrators. This has included Jai Wolf, Ravenscoon, Sara Landry, Nala, and Deorro. The Mexican-American DJ and producer took to Instagram to speak his mind about the ICE raids while stating that he’d repost anything to help the situation on his account. “It is heartbreaking to see my people suffer,” he shared.

Brownies & Lemonade posted to X (Formerly Twitter), saying, “Immigrants have contributed so much to culture, art, technology, science, and helped make California the 4th largest economy in the world. LA will always stand up for the diverse people who make this state great.”

Synthetik Minds founder and 6AM Group Chief Growth Officer Marco Sgalbazzini also issued a lengthy statement about the ongoing situation in Los Angeles. “We want to be clear: we stand in full solidarity with all hard-working immigrants who contribute positively to their communities and the everyday life of this country, regardless of status,” he said. “You are not a burden. You are not a threat. You are an essential part of our communities, and your presence matters.”

Fast-rising underground promoter LICKNDIP released a statement yesterday expressing their dismay with the recent ICE raids and calling on other collectives, artists, and ravers to take action. They plan to assist by collecting donations and non-perishable food items at future events and donating to the Immigrant Defenders Law Center.

Blind Tiger canceled their Solar event over the weekend, citing safety concerns for their team, artists, and community due to the rising situation. “What’s happening in our city is heavy,” they said. “We stand in solidarity with our people, and while tonight we won’t be gathering under the stars, our mission to create space for joy, connection, and resistance through music remains unchanged.”

The Yost Theater and Yost Nightlife posted a video earlier tonight to check in on their community and share important phone numbers and other information. “We stand with our community — especially those affected by the fear and uncertainty surrounding ICE activity,” they said. “At Yost Theater, we believe in creating a space where everyone feels safe, seen, and supported.”

Novacane and his primarily Mexican-American collective, Electric Jungle, are among the latest to speak up regarding the ongoing ICE raids. Not only did they share resources, including tips for those planning to protest and important phone numbers, but they are also helping raise funds for trusted organizations via direct donation links.

The LA Raver and Techtonik have canceled their two Above Ground parties this weekend. “Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected, and we believe it is important to stand in solidarity with our community during these difficult times,” they said in a joint statement on Instagram.

Rolita Couture’s Rosa Yanisselli, who emigrated to the US to find a better future, shared her story and thoughts. “It’s frustrating to see how immigrants are being treated just because they are looking for something better for themselves and their loved ones,” she said. “I was fortunate to come to this country with my documents, but not everyone can say the same. Many are suffering in their countries and come here seeking safety and opportunity.”

Other notable community members, like XXXDCD founder Daniel Campos, have also spoken out about the lack of support from those in the scene—especially those who have embraced Latin music and culture. “It’s time to build up our support for ourselves,” he said in a post. “I genuinely want them to use their voice platform for us and prove me wrong.”

The ICE raids in Los Angeles, other parts of California, and the rest of the US are anticipated to continue as the Trump administration puts pressure on places that have been deemed sanctuary jurisdictions.

Whether you’re planning to protest or know those who might be affected by the ICE raids, it’s essential to educate yourself. The National Immigrant Justice Center has a page dedicated to details on what to do when encountering ICE agents, and many have begun circulating digital documents with lists of organizations and resources for immigrants.