LA mayor Bass worries ICE raids will leave ‘nobody to do childcare’

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass recently spoke to reporter Katie Couric about the impact of recent ICE raids in the city. Bass expressed her concerns about the consequences of arresting illegal immigrants, stating that the absence of immigrant labor will be felt in various industries such as construction, hospitality, and grocery stores. She emphasized the ripple effect this could have on Angelenos, pointing out that individuals who rely on immigrant workers for childcare, housekeeping, and gardening will be directly affected.

Bass highlighted a conversation she had with someone who mentioned empty shelves in a local grocery store due to a lack of workers to stock them. She also noted the emotional toll these raids can take on families, with parents afraid to go to work or send their children to school. The disruption caused by the fear of deportation can lead to mental health issues, especially for children who have experienced trauma during previous administrations or the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite Bass’ concerns, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has made it clear that they intend to continue their efforts to arrest criminal illegal immigrants. DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin issued a statement emphasizing that ICE will not be deterred by the protests and will continue to enforce the law.

The ongoing debate surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on communities remains a contentious issue in Los Angeles and beyond. While some argue for stricter enforcement to uphold the law, others advocate for more compassionate approaches that consider the human cost of these actions. As the situation unfolds, the balance between law enforcement and community well-being continues to be a topic of discussion in the city and beyond.