The Rapid Escalation of ICE Raids in Los Angeles and the Role of Independent Journalism
In a matter of hours, the city of Los Angeles was shaken by a swift and intense law enforcement operation. On June 6, agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launched a widespread crackdown, targeting numerous businesses and detaining over 40 individuals. News of the raids quickly spread across social media platforms, igniting a wave of protests throughout the city. In response, L.A. Taco’s dedicated six-member journalism team mobilized to cover the unfolding events firsthand.
Journalists Confronted with Police Aggression During Civil Unrest
Investigative journalist Lexis-Olivier Ray documented the tense confrontations at the downtown Los Angeles Federal Building, capturing footage of police officers discharging pepper balls at protesters and media personnel. The following day, Ray recounted being targeted with pepper balls himself, along with other journalists covering the protests. Having reported on civil disturbances in L.A. for over five years, Ray admitted he had never encountered such aggressive tactics directed at the press before.
“Witnessing this was truly shocking,” said Ray, 35. Although he couldn’t specify the number of hits he sustained, his backpack was visibly stained with pepper ball residue. “It was clear that law enforcement showed a blatant disregard for our role as journalists.”
From Humble Beginnings to a Vital News Source
Originally launched as a modest website celebrating the city’s vibrant taco culture, L.A. Taco faced the threat of closure just a year prior. However, it has since evolved into a significant and resilient local newsroom, providing in-depth coverage during critical moments like the ICE raids, which saw more than 1,600 arrests or detentions across Southern California in June, according to Cal Matters.
“Year after year, our journalism improves,” remarked Gustavo Arellano, a columnist for the Los Angeles Times. “In this moment of heightened immigration concerns, L.A. Taco has become an essential eye on the streets of Los Angeles.”
Covering a Crisis: Commitment to Street-Level Reporting
In a heartfelt message to its readership, Javier Cabral, L.A. Taco’s Editor-in-Chief, emphasized the team’s unwavering dedication to frontline journalism. Despite threats, social media harassment, and exhaustion from relentless coverage, the staff remained committed to delivering accurate, timely information. He expressed gratitude to supporters who subscribed and contributed financially, recognizing their vital role in sustaining the outlet.
“Our small team of six journalists cares deeply about our city and its people,” Cabral wrote. “Your support keeps us going, even amid low pay, constant threats, and the uncertainties of an increasingly AI-driven media landscape.”
Adapting to a Rapidly Changing News Environment
The intensity of the ICE raids prompted L.A. Taco to shift its focus toward a “social media first” strategy, prioritizing rapid dissemination of verified information across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). This approach, while risky due to the site’s limited monetization on social channels, was deemed essential to serve the community’s urgent informational needs. Memo Torres, the outlet’s Director of Content, explained that the team’s primary goal was to provide immediate, service-oriented journalism during the crisis.
Since the initial raids, Torres has been actively sharing verified videos from staff, community members, and other media outlets, offering real-time updates. His daily video summaries, dubbed the “Daily Memo,” resemble war correspondents reporting from the front lines, capturing the chaos and human stories behind the headlines.
Community-Centered Reporting and Local Trust
Small, community-focused outlets like CALÓ News, LA Public Press, and L.A. Taco distinguish themselves through their intimate understanding of local neighborhoods. Janette Villafana, a multimedia reporter for L.A. Taco, highlighted that hyperlocal journalists often share the same backgrounds and experiences as their audiences, fostering trust and authentic communication.
“Building relationships and trust within our community is at the core of our work,” Villafana, 33, explained. “Whether reporting on ICE or other issues, we’re part of the fabric of the neighborhoods we serve.”
The Evolution of L.A. Taco: From Tacos to Trusted News
Founded nearly two decades ago by publisher Alex Bloomingdale, deputy editor Hadley Tomicki, and artist Colin Browne, L.A. Taco initially started as a playful blog celebrating the city’s culinary and street culture-think tacos, cannabis, and graffiti. Its lighthearted tone made it a local favorite, often more memorable for its humorous titles than its content.
However, in 2017, the publication underwent a transformation under editor Daniel Hernandez, shifting toward more serious local journalism. Hernandez’s departure in 2019 led to Cabral’s appointment as editor, bringing a background that includes work at VICE, scouting for renowned critic Jonathan Gold, and interning at OC Weekly.
Financial Challenges and Community Support
By mid-2022, L.A. Taco faced financial difficulties, prompting the team to furlough most staff and consider shutting down unless they could secure new funding. To survive, they launched a crowdfunding campaign, emphasizing transparency about their struggles. The response was overwhelming: within a day, the furlough was reversed, and the outlet’s subscriber base doubled from 1,500 to 3,500.
Subscribers pay annual fees ranging from $59.99 to $999, with all plans offering perks like free tacos-an homage to the publication’s roots. Notably, in June alone, the outlet gained 800 new subscribers, supplemented by donations and social media followers. High-profile supporters like Eva Longoria pledged matching funds for a July fundraising drive, helping the outlet project a return to profitability for the first time in years.
A Vision for a Sustainable, Community-Driven Media Model
With an annual budget of approximately $500,000, L.A. Taco aims to reinvest earnings into journalism, community events, and initiatives like the annual Taco Madness festival, now in its 16th year. Founder Bloomingdale envisions building a “DIY-style” media enterprise that balances independence with innovation, resisting the temptation to convert into a nonprofit organization, despite suggestions from some supporters.
“Readers have always supported us through thick and thin,” Cabral affirmed. “We prefer to stand firm and maintain our editorial integrity rather than compromise our principles for financial convenience.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Local Journalism in Los Angeles
As L.A. Taco continues to adapt and grow, its story exemplifies the resilience of independent media outlets committed to serving their communities. In an era where mainstream outlets often struggle with sustainability, grassroots organizations like L.A. Taco demonstrate that dedicated, community-rooted journalism remains vital-especially during times of crisis. Their ongoing efforts underscore the importance of local voices in shaping an informed, engaged city.