New Orleans ICE Raids Spark Outcry: Dozens Detained, Including US Citizens, Amidst Racial Profiling Claims

Federal Immigration Sweep Sparks Crisis in New Orleans, Drawing Widespread Condemnation

A large-scale federal immigration operation, initiated by the Trump administration, has swept across the New Orleans area, leading to dozens of detentions and igniting fierce protests. As the operation entered its second day, local communities were gripped by fear, with many immigrant families reportedly going into hiding. Allegations of racial profiling have mounted as advocates recount harrowing experiences of those detained, including U.S. citizens.

Victims Detail Horrific Encounters with Federal Agents

Eyewitness accounts and victim testimonies paint a grim picture of the operation. Rachel Taber of Unión Migrante shared a video showing masked border patrol agents questioning and handcuffing a man in a Lowe’s parking lot. Despite the man asserting, "I’m a US citizen," agents proceeded with the handcuffing after repeating the question in Spanish. Taber confirmed at least three instances where U.S. citizens were detained for questioning, only to be released after proving their citizenship.

CNN also reported the case of a 22-year-old U.S.-born mother who described being chased home from a grocery store by federal agents. "I kept yelling at them, ‘I’m legal! I’m a US-born citizen! Please, leave me alone!’" she tearfully recounted.

Advocates, including Taber, firmly assert that agents are not specifically targeting criminals. Instead, they appear to be "picking up people off the streets, whoever they can catch – these are moms and dads coming home from work." Taber characterized the detentions as "psychological warfare," directly accusing agents of "attacking people who haven’t committed any crime, it’s just the color of their skin. It’s just straight racial profiling."

"Operation Catahoula Crunch" Faces Scrutiny

The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed "dozens" of detentions under "Operation Catahoula Crunch," citing six specific cases. However, one of the listed convictions was only for vehicle theft and forging documents, raising questions about the administration's claim of targeting "the worst of the worst." Critics argue this discrepancy further supports allegations that the operation is broad and indiscriminate.

Community Mobilizes Amidst Fear and Disruption

The intense federal presence has galvanized the New Orleans community. Residents have organized emergency carpools for children whose parents are too afraid to leave their homes, fearing potential apprehension. Local officials are also facing mounting pressure, with a New Orleans city council meeting disrupted for nearly 30 minutes by protesters demanding stronger protections and urging the designation of city property as ICE-free zones. Tensions flared when Council President JP Morrell suspended public comments, leading to chants of “let the people speak” before police intervened to remove protesters.

The impact on daily life is profound and widespread. Businesses report fewer customers, and many residents are choosing to stay indoors to avoid encounters with federal agents. Taber described the operation as a "siege," highlighting the difficult choices families now confront regarding work, school, and essential responsibilities like paying rent. She warned of a bleak holiday season for many children: "There are kids this Christmas who are not just going to be without presents, they’re going to be without parents." The ripple effects of this operation threaten to destabilize countless lives and deepen the divides within the community.