UPDATE: News is spreading that Ernesto Ayala has been released! We will keep you updated as more news comes in. Until official word comes out from Ernesto himself, we hope you will continue to sign. Thank you for your support!

Ernesto Ayala, Chair of La Raza Unida (Partido Nacional de La Raza Unida), American citizen and resident of Pacoima, CA, was detained by ICE the morning of July 8th, 2025 outside of the Home Depot at 16800 Roscoe Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91406.

He was taken into the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Los Angeles. His friends and family await word of his release. 

Supporters believe he may have been processed as Jenard Ernesto Ayala Register 26672-506. Ernesto's birthday is September 1st, 1981.

Ernesto is legally represented by Cal (Caleb) Soto, Workers’ Rights Director National Day Laborer Organizing Network: csoto@ndlon.org

 

Watch story on Univision

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Images created by La Raza Unida Party

 

Please donate to Ernesto's legal fund here.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/free-ernesto-support-his-safe-return?attribution_id=sl:f3690210-1781-4907-a104-693546f44c41&lang=en_US&ts=1752103408&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp13_t1-amp14_t2-amp15_t3&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&v=amp14_t2

 

Ernesto Ayala is more than just an acquaintance; he is a cherished friend and an admirable activist. 

Ernesto's work as the Chair of La Raza Unida (Partido Nacional de La Raza Unida) in the San Fernando Valley and beyond has been nothing short of inspiring. His tireless work for equity and justice has not only uplifted communities but also mobilized them to push for systemic change. Despite his immense contributions to the community and his undeniable commitment to justice, Ernesto Ayala is detained, and his absence is profoundly felt among us who are lucky enough to call him friend or familia.

As a co-host of La Raza Radio on KPFK 90.7 with Matt Sedillo and Vanessa Bustamante, Ernesto continued to be a voice for the voiceless, a warrior of the airwaves bringing critical issues of social justice to the forefront. Together with another activist, Matt and Ernesto co-founded Telejaguar, a social media group committed to activism and community empowerment, further demonstrating his deep commitment to catalyzing positive change.

Releasing Ernesto Ayala is not just a matter of justice; it’s about restoring an invaluable community leader to his rightful place within the society he strives to uplift. His dedication to rallying for the rights of marginalized groups is critical now more than ever. We need someone like him who is dedicated to document the many unlawful detentions at places like Home Depot where immigrants are being denied their rights and are often being moved into unmarked vehicles by officers who refuse to identify themselves. 

We urge those in positions of power to acknowledge Ernesto's contributions and rectify this situation by releasing him immediately. His leadership is essential for our communities to continue thriving and evolving toward inclusive and just realities. Ernesto belongs with the people who need him out here in the community, not behind bars.

Please join us in demanding Ernesto Ayala’s immediate release. Sign this petition and help us bring a committed, influential, and beloved activist back to where he can continue making a real difference.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Image created by Re/Arte Centro Literario

 

CONTACT NOW

 

Los Angeles Migrant Detention Center (MDC)

LosAngeles.Outreach@ice.dhs.gov

 

Contact City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez (Representing Pacoima):

https://cd7.lacity.gov/

councilmember.rodriguez@lacity.org

 

Contact Congresswoman Luz Rivas (Representing Pacoima):

https://rivas.house.gov/contact/email-me

 

Contact California Junior Senator Adam Schiff: 

https://www.schiff.senate.gov/contact/get-in-touch/

 

Contact California Senior Senator Alex Padilla: 

https://www.padilla.senate.gov/contact/contact-form/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photos courtesy of the Ayala family.