In a passionate plea during the Civil Rights, Equity, Immigration, Aging and Disability Committee meeting in Los Angeles, community advocate Lupita Martínez called for urgent action to protect vulnerable residents from violence and human trafficking. Martínez highlighted the fear and insecurity faced by many in her community, particularly in light of recent incidents involving masked individuals attacking women.

Martínez recounted a harrowing experience where her group, Rapid Response, intervened when they witnessed an assault. Despite their efforts to seek help from law enforcement, they were met with indifference. "We asked them to identify themselves, but they said it wasn't our concern," she stated, emphasizing the need for police to take human trafficking seriously.

Her remarks underscored a growing frustration with the Los Angeles Police Department's perceived inability to protect marginalized communities, particularly when immigration enforcement is involved. "We want the police on our side," Martínez urged, imploring city leaders to listen to the voices of their constituents and take decisive action to ensure safety and security.

The meeting served as a critical platform for discussing the intersection of civil rights and public safety, with Martínez's testimony shining a light on the urgent need for community support and effective law enforcement response. As the city grapples with these pressing issues, the call for change resonates louder than ever, highlighting the importance of protecting all residents, regardless of their background.