Anti-I.C.E. Protesters Take a Stand in Rancho Cucamonga
By Lionel Getten
Giszelle Marquez and Gianna Marquez holding up the Mexican flag during the “Immigrants Make America Great” protest. Photo by Karla Noperi
On Feb. 15, 2025, Anti-Immigration Customs Enforcement (I.C.E) protestors stationed at the corner of Haven and Foothill, demonstrating their discontent with recent immigration-related executive orders passed by President Donald Trump.
Attendee and protest organizer, Luis Chavez, was inspired to assemble this event by the undocumented migrants facing hardships, including his own sister whose asylum is being contested underneath new laws. “America was built on immigrants so that’s why we’re fighting for this cause.” Chavez expressed.
On Feb. 11, 2025, Chavez made use of his Instagram platform to advertise the protest, which he titled “Immigrants Make America Great.” Within the post, he emphasized that this was meant to be a peaceful protest, with the objective of "spread[ing] awareness and to be with the community. Not to spread hate.” Additionally, he warned that any signs of violence or hate speech would result in the cancellation of the protest.
The day of the event, community members abided by the request of peacefully protesting, whilst on the corner of one of the busiest intersections in Rancho Cucamonga. The crowd of about 20 members received honks of support throughout their demonstration, with cultural music, dancing and chants highlighting the afternoon.
“In a moment where we should really be more united especially with all the changes going on in our country, people have chosen to focus on division and setting people apart into groups,” a protest member exclaimed.
The protest concluded at around 4:00 p.m.
Luis Chavez holding an “Abolish Ice” sign during the “Immigrants Make America Great” protest. Photo by Karla Noperi
Family members supporting protestors. Photo by Karla Noperi
Luis Chavez and Aidan Perez protesting together. Photo by Karla Noperi
Protestor holding up the sign “I drink my horchata warm because fuck I.C.E.” Photo by Karla Noperi