Left-leaning activists say LA28's Human Rights Strategy relies too heavily on the LAPD and DHS, a concern amplified by recent immigration raids and fears of community intimidation. The Games' designation as a National Special Security Event signals expanded federal involvement, while the LAPD has warned of staffing shortfalls. Critics have also protested controversial board appointments and scrutiny of LA28 chair Casey Wasserman.
LA28 Security Plan Under Fire: Activists Say Heavy Reliance On LAPD And DHS Will Intimidate Vulnerable Communities
The Los Angeles Times reported on left-wing organizations objecting Los Angeles relying on the police department and the Department of Homeland Security ahead of the 2028 Olympics.(Getty Images)
Left-leaning activists and community groups are sharply criticizing the Los Angeles 2028 organizing committee's newly released Human Rights Strategy, arguing it leans too heavily on the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to secure the Games.
Activists Raise Human Rights Concerns
At a recent Los Angeles City Council committee hearing, groups such as the Fair Game Coalition and the Sunita Jain Anti-Trafficking Initiative warned that the proposed security model risks intimidating communities still recovering from recent immigration enforcement actions. Activists say a dominant police and federal presence could discourage vulnerable residents from attending or engaging with Games-related events.
Los Angeles is set to host the 2028 Summer Olympic Games.
“This plan fails to protect those most at risk,” said Martin Barrera of the Fair Game Coalition, citing concerns about DHS involvement after raids that resulted in the detention of many migrant workers.
Federal Role And Security Planning
LA28's Human Rights Strategy notes that the 2028 Games have been designated a National Special Security Event, which typically triggers expanded federal involvement. The strategy states that DHS and other federal agencies will provide resources, staff, and technology, and that the federal government, with state and local partners, will coordinate operational security and contingency planning.
The LAPD chief has separately warned that staffing shortages could hamper the department's ability to secure the Games, adding another layer of concern about how safety will be managed across the city.
Chairman of the LA2028 Olympics Organizing Committee, Casey Wasserman, has come under controversy for his name appearing in the Epstein files.
Political And Leadership Controversies
Critics have intensified pressure on LA28 after the organizing committee added several high-profile conservatives to its board, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and former White House chief of staff Reince Priebus. Those actions prompted calls for the resignation of LA28 Chair Casey Wasserman, who has faced additional scrutiny over his appearance in Jeffrey Epstein-related records and reported communications with a close Epstein associate. Wasserman has said he will sell his talent agency but remains in his LA28 role.
Calls For Change
Activists are urging LA28 to revise its approach by increasing community-led safety initiatives, boosting transparency and independent oversight, and ensuring that human rights protections are central to security planning rather than subordinated to law enforcement priorities.
LA28 was contacted for comment.
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