High-Profile Lawyer Reveals Key Player Behind ICE Riots in Los Angeles
A prominent California attorney has identified the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) as a central organizer behind recent anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, where demonstrators clashed with law enforcement. Attorney Laura Powell shared her findings on social media, alleging that CHIRLA is leveraging taxpayer funds to incite aggressive resistance to federal immigration enforcement.
CHIRLA reportedly leads the Los Angeles Rapid Response Network, a coalition that monitors Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity and mobilizes protestors in real time. Powell highlighted CHIRLA’s close ties to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and influential labor unions, describing the organization as politically powerful and historically aligned with radical positions—most notably its role in the 2018 “Abolish ICE” movement.
Financial records show that CHIRLA received $34 million in state funding from California in 2023—nearly triple its 2022 allocation. The organization also briefly held a $450,000 federal contract, which was revoked following legal challenges. These figures have fueled growing scrutiny over the use of public funds to support politically active nonprofits.
The protests have gained national attention, particularly due to the involvement of Rep. Maxine Waters, who has long opposed federal immigration crackdowns. At the protest site, Waters confronted National Guard personnel—deployed under orders from then-President Donald Trump—and condemned what she called the militarization of a sanctuary city without proper state coordination.
The unfolding controversy raises significant ethical and legal questions about the role of taxpayer-funded nonprofits in political activism. It also underscores ongoing tensions between local sanctuary policies and federal immigration enforcement strategies. Further developments are expected as investigations and public debate continue.
