Thousands of protesters marched through downtown Los Angeles on Friday, May 1, 2026, to demand improved workers' and immigrant rights [1].

The demonstrations mark International Workers' Day, a global event used to highlight labor struggles and the legal status of migrant workers in the U.S.

Participants began their rally at MacArthur Park before marching toward the city center [1]. While thousands took part in the broader citywide events [1], a smaller group of roughly 24 protesters gathered specifically outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, an ICE detention facility [2]. Other reports indicated that demonstrators also flooded streets near a federal building in the area [3].

Labor leaders addressed the crowds during the events. David Huerta, president of Service Employees International-United Service Workers (SEIU-UW), said the collective action and pursuit of systemic change were necessary.

"I believe in you, I believe in us and our ability to fight for change. I believe because I know you are hungry for a better future," Huerta said.

The rallies focused on the intersection of labor rights and immigration enforcement. By targeting the Metropolitan Detention Center, protesters aimed to bring attention to the conditions, and legal challenges, facing detainees within the ICE system.

Law enforcement monitored the gatherings throughout the day. In some instances, the small group stationed at the detention facility was met by police presence [2]. Despite the friction at specific sites, the larger march through the downtown corridor continued as a central part of the May Day observances in Los Angeles.

“"I believe in you, I believe in us and our ability to fight for change."”

The concentration of May Day protests at both labor hubs and federal detention centers reflects a strategic effort by organizers to link economic labor demands with immigrant rights. By targeting the Metropolitan Detention Center, activists are attempting to shift the conversation from general wage disputes to the specific legal vulnerabilities of the migrant workforce in the U.S.