City of South Gate Joins Legal Effort to Protect Civil Rights

Published on July 22, 2025

City of South Gate Joins Legal Effort to Protect Civil Rights Amid Federal Immigration Enforcement Activities
NEWS RELEASE
July 22, 2025

South Gate, CA – In response to recent alleged unlawful federal operations conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across Los Angeles County, the South Gate City Council voted unanimously in closed session on July 16, 2025, to intervene in a federal lawsuit, Perdomo, et al. v. Noem, et al., filed on July 2 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. South Gate joins other concerned cities in Los Angeles County that have experienced significant economic and public safety impacts as a result of ICE’s unauthorized enforcement activities.

The lawsuit alleges that, since early June 2025, federal agents have carried out aggressive immigration raids throughout the region, violating civil rights by indiscriminately targeting individuals based on race or ethnicity—often without warrants or legal justification. Reports indicate unlawful detentions, denial of access to legal counsel, and inhumane treatment of individuals taken into custody. These actions have disrupted local communities, causing fear among residents and placing additional strain on local law enforcement resources.

By joining the lawsuit, the City of South Gate stands in solidarity with a growing coalition of cities advocating for transparency, accountability, and the protection of constitutional and human rights in federal immigration enforcement practices. The South Gate City Council reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and well-being of all who live and work in the City.  South Gate is being represented by the prestigious firm of Munger Tolles & Olson.

Residents are encouraged to connect with trusted local organizations and immigration legal services for assistance through the City’s Immigration Humanitarian Services program. For more information and a list of resources, please visit Immigration Rights and Resources City of South Gate.

The City will continue to update this website as developments occur in the lawsuit.