Saraí Ortiz’s father Jose worked for Ambiance Apparel in Los Angeles for 18 years, until he was arrested in a recent ICE raid along with over 40 other immigrant workers. The raid has caused civil unrest, leading to the deployment of National Guard and Marines in the city.

Many of the detained workers, mostly men from Indigenous communities in Mexico, have had little contact with their families and lawyers. Ambiance Apparel, a fast-fashion company, has a history of legal issues but provided steady work for immigrants.

The company, involved in a money laundering investigation in 2014, was accused of undervaluing imported garments and avoiding tariffs. Owner Sang Bum “Ed” Noh pleaded guilty to conspiracy and false tax return charges in 2020 and was sentenced to prison in 2021.

Despite these troubles, Ambiance employees have shown loyalty to the company, with some receiving personal loans and financial help from Noh. The company was sentenced to probation and ordered to implement an anti-money laundering program.

Family members of detained workers, like Montserrat Arrazola and Carlos Gonzalez, are struggling with the separation and uncertainty. They are calling for due process rights and speaking out against the inhumane treatment of the workers.