Legendary boxer Oscar de la Hoya, the son of Mexican immigrants and raised in Los Angeles, has expressed concern about the protests taking place in his hometown due to immigration raids carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). With great sadness over what is happening in his neighborhood, on Wednesday afternoon he released a statement paying tribute to immigrants and highlighting their importance to the community.
“I am saddened by what is happening in Los Angeles right now. Growing up in LA, I have witnessed firsthand how fundamental immigrants are to the heart of this city: they are our friends, neighbors, classmates, colleagues, and loved ones. Latinos are among the hardest-working people in the world, and their contributions strengthen every corner of our communities,” said the boxing entrepreneur, seeking to dispel some of the myths and false stereotypes about his people.
Protests in Los Angeles and their national impact
The current protests in Los Angeles over the controversial immigration raids, which have sometimes led to violent acts, have led to the deployment of military forces in the city. These demonstrations have inspired similar mobilizations in other parts of the United States in solidarity with immigrants affected by the raids.
De La Hoya, who was born in Montebello, California, but grew up in East Los Angeles, a predominantly Latino community, recalled his roots and his family’s sacrifice. During the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, where he won a gold medal, De La Hoya waved both the American and Mexican flags in the ring, symbolizing his pride in both cultures.
The boxer retired in 2009 and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014. He is currently the founder and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, one of the world’s leading boxing promotion companies, so his success continues outside the ring and, in this way, he also continues to work under the US flag (especially economically) around the world.
A tribute to the sacrifices of immigrants
“As a proud Mexican-American, I am immensely grateful for the sacrifices my family made in coming to the United States from Mexico in search of a better future. Their courage gave me opportunities that I will never take for granted,” De La Hoya added in his statement.
De La Hoya, who obtained dual citizenship in 2002, has been an advocate for the Latino community and an example of success for many immigrants. His story reflects the positive impact that immigrant families have on American society. From his point of view, it is understandable that he does not understand the reason for all these raids and critical thoughts towards this part of the Los Angeles population.
