Crews Work to Remove Graffiti After Los Angeles Protest Unrest
Following several days of intense anti-ICE protests across downtown Los Angeles, municipal and volunteer cleanup crews are working swiftly to remove graffiti and repair other damage. The recent demonstrations, which included vandalism and clashes with law enforcement, left buildings like City Hall and the Roybal Federal Building defaced with anti-ICE and anti-police messages. Burned vehicles—including autonomous cars—and scattered debris also marked the aftermath.
On Monday, crews were dispatched citywide to power-wash sidewalks, scrub painted building façades, and clear trash from streets. Community members—joined by volunteers and National Guard personnel—played a vital role in restoring order in heavily impacted sections of downtown. One volunteer emphasized their commitment to supporting the protest’s message while also helping clean up the city.
City workers also cleared broken glass, boarded up damaged windows, and removed debris, coordinating efforts around government buildings and storefronts. While the cleanup continues, Mayor Karen Bass has encouraged residents to come together in restoring the city’s appearance ahead of major global events like the World Cup and 2028 Olympics.
The scale of the cleanup underscores both the physical toll of civil unrest and the community’s resilience. Officials note that graffiti removal in Los Angeles typically involves tens of thousands of tags each month, but this wave of defacement was more targeted and politically charged.
As demonstrations persist, the cleanup reflects a shared goal of balancing civic expression with public responsibility. The city’s Office of Community Beautification continues working to restore affected public spaces, aiming to ensure that the protests are remembered for their message rather than their aftermath.
