The criminalization of dissent is one of the defining features of authoritarian régimes. Over 50 people have been arrested and charged with crimes connected to widespread protests against ICE’s militarily-assisted dragnets in Los Angeles.

One of those apprehended during Los Angeles’ historic struggle against deportation raids, organizer Alejandro Orellana, was arrested and charged with federal offenses of conspiracy and “aiding and abetting civil disorder” for the so-called crime of using and sharing masks during the protests. Led by Centro CSO, the community rallied around Orellana. There were numerous protests and national call-ins for his release.

On July 30, the U.S. Attorney dropped all charges against Orellana. This represents an important victory for collective action. At the same time, repression continues. CourtWatch LA, a program through La Defensa, a femme-led advocacy organization, is attending the pre-trial hearings of activists arrested for protesting the raids. We must maintain pressure!

(Taken from an email sent to me by Never Again Action.)