Protesters Flood Phoenix Intersection for Hours Sunday Over Immigration Policy Changes and Deportations

Phoenix police confirmed that a significant protest occurred on Sunday evening, starting around 5 p.m. at the intersection of 75th Avenue and Encanto Boulevard. The demonstrators gathered in response to mass deportation efforts and recent changes in immigration policy.

Many individuals held Mexican flags and various signs, expressing opposition to the recent wave of arrests. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency reported conducting 956 arrests on Sunday alone and 286 the previous day. Last fiscal year, ICE averaged 311 arrests daily, raising concerns within the local community.

Community members in the Valley have expressed fear regarding potential ICE raids, despite the absence of reported increased Border Patrol activity. The protest reflected widespread anxiety about immigration enforcement.

During the demonstration, police temporarily closed the intersection due to unrelated activities, including drag racing and fireworks. Shortly after journalists from 12News arrived, authorities reopened the road and relocated their presence to a nearby parking lot.