Full Breakdown
Protests at Home Depot Demand Removal of ICE Presence
11/24/2025, 8:54:55 AM
Demonstration Overview
On November 22, 2025, nearly one hundred individuals participated in a protest at a Home Depot store in Monrovia, California, organized by the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON). The demonstration, termed a "buy-in," involved participants purchasing a small ice scraper, only to return it shortly after, symbolizing their demand for Home Depot to "scrape ICE out of their stores." Protesters donned makeshift aprons and used Home Depot buckets as drums, emphasizing their message against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in the area.
Context of the Protest
The protest was partly a response to the death of Carlos Roberto Montoya Valdez, an immigrant day laborer who died in August after fleeing from immigration agents. His death has been described as destabilizing for the local community, with Michael Ocon, a board member of the Monrovia Unified School District, stating that it impacted everyone in the region. The NDLON aimed to highlight the financial contributions of day laborers to Home Depot while avoiding a full boycott, as community members still rely on the store for work opportunities.
Home Depot's Response
George Lane, Home Depot's manager of corporate communications, stated that the company does not coordinate with ICE or Border Patrol and is often unaware of immigration enforcement activities until they have concluded. He emphasized that Home Depot complies with all federal and local regulations in its operations. During the protest, store employees did not intervene, and one entrance was eventually closed to manage the demonstration.
Community Impact and Perspectives
The protest aimed to raise awareness about the impact of ICE raids on immigrant communities, particularly in locations where day laborers gather, such as Home Depot parking lots. S.J. Denning, a volunteer with the East Pasadena Community Defense Corner, expressed the need for community courage in confronting what he termed "kidnapping" of neighbors by ICE. Pastor Mayra Macedo-Nolan, who attended the event, highlighted the importance of laborers in rebuilding the community, which had already faced challenges from local disasters.
Criticism & Opposition
While the protest aimed to draw attention to the presence of ICE, some community members may feel conflicted about the approach. The NDLON's strategy of a buy-in rather than a boycott reflects a desire to maintain business relationships while advocating for immigrant rights. However, the effectiveness of such actions in achieving long-term change remains a topic of debate among local activists.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Whether the corporation wants to admit it or not, Home Depot has become ground zero for this cruel, vicious immigration enforcement that’s taking place in our country,” — Pablo Alvarado, Co-Executive Director, NDLON
- “This issue impacts every single person that calls this region home,” — Michael Ocon, Board Member, Monrovia Unified School District
- “It’s not OK to kidnap our neighbors off the streets,” — S.J. Denning, Volunteer, East Pasadena Community Defense Corner
The demonstration at Home Depot serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions about immigration enforcement and its effects on local communities, highlighting the intersection of labor, corporate responsibility, and immigrant rights.
