LONG BEACH, Calif. — The Supreme Court of the United States, a conservative majority bench, voted 6-3 in a ruling to allow federal immigration officers to continue what they call “roving patrol” operations in Los Angeles and cities within.
Many call the decision un-American, saying that it is wrong and unconstitutional to assume and just arrest or question people simply because of their appearance or status. Based off the language they speak, their race, or their occupation.
Long Beach State professor and immigration activist Teresa Puente described it as a clear example of racial profiling.
“What I think the Supreme Court and what ICE are doing is essentially racial profiling, and I think inherently it’s not fair because to assume something about a person because of their skin color, the language they speak, or their occupation is just inherently un-American,” Puente said.
However, supporters of the SCOTUS decision argue that allowing federal immigration officers to continue operation helps uphold the constitution of the United States. One of them included Frank Ryan, the owner of BeachIn in Seal Beach, CA, a store fully dedicated to President Trump merchandise.
“I think it’s a blessing that the Supreme Court allowed it to continue,” Ryan said. “I don’t believe a state should try to overthrow the federal government or create its own laws. The Supreme Court’s role is to protect and uphold the Constitution of the United States.”
As debates continue over the ruling, many people say they won’t let fear define them or the language they speak define them. Even as questions remain about how the decision will shape the future of the country here locally and nationwide.
