Where to Follow Independent Coverage of the LA Protests and ICE Raids (June 2025)

Like Turks, Americans are now attacked by a domestic issue on a daily basis. It was Trump vs. Musk a few days ago, now the LA riots triggered by ICE operations. I have asked Perplexity to compile independent media sources to follow the protests.

Independent and Pro-Protester News Outlets Covering LA and California Riots

For real-time, on-the-ground coverage of the current immigration raid protests and related unrest in Los Angeles and California, several independent and pro-protester news outlets, as well as grassroots and alternative media, are providing critical perspectives often missing from mainstream sources. Below is a curated list of such outlets and resources:

1. LAist

• LAist is a trusted local news outlet known for community-centered reporting and live updates on protests, including direct quotes from demonstrators and coverage of police actions. Their recent reporting highlights both the scale of the protests and the response from law enforcement, including the use of tear gas and “less lethal munitions” against protesters and journalists3.

2. Knock LA

• Knock LA is a progressive, independent newsroom focused on Los Angeles politics, policing, and activism. It is widely followed by activists and protest organizers for its in-depth, pro-protester coverage and live updates during major demonstrations. While not directly cited in the search results, Knock LA is recognized for its role in covering social movements and is often referenced by protest communities.

3. The Independent

• The Independent, a UK-based outlet, has provided detailed breakdowns of the protests, the context behind the unrest, and the escalation involving ICE raids and National Guard deployments. Their coverage includes analysis of protester motivations and the symbolism adopted by demonstrators, such as the use of the Mexican flag1.

4. Capital & Main

• Capital & Main is an investigative news outlet with a focus on California social justice issues, labor, and immigration. While not directly cited in the search results, it is known for sympathetic coverage of grassroots movements and protests.

5. Local Activist and Citizen Journalism Accounts

• Many real-time updates, videos, and eyewitness accounts are shared via social media platforms (especially X/Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok) by independent journalists, community organizers, and protester collectives. Searching hashtags like #LAProtests, #AbolishICE, or #NoICEinLA can lead to on-the-ground reporting and livestreams from those directly involved.

6. Press Freedom and Watchdog Organizations

• The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and the Los Angeles Press Club have been documenting attacks on journalists and media suppression during the protests, providing updates and alerts relevant for those following independent coverage45.

Table: Independent and Pro-Protester Outlets to Follow

Additional Tips

• Follow local journalists: Reporters like Sean Beckner-Carmitchel and Ryanne Mena, mentioned in recent coverage, are known for their on-the-ground reporting and often share live updates4.

• Monitor hashtags: For breaking news and protester perspectives, monitor hashtags related to the protests on social media for firsthand accounts and livestreams.

• Stay cautious: Some outlets and accounts may be targeted or suppressed during periods of unrest; cross-reference information for accuracy and safety.