Crowds of protesters gathered Monday afternoon outside of Tampa City Hall in response to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids throughout the country and recent immigration policies. Organizers say the demonstration is also "in solidarity" with the protests in Los Angeles, which have escalated following President Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard. Protesters in LA blocked a major freeway and set cars on fire as law enforcement reportedly used tear gas, rubber bullets and flash bangs. Occupy Florida and Voices of Florida are among the various groups that took part in organizing the protest in Tampa. "Families are being torn apart. Homes raided. Communities terrorized. We will not stay silent while ICE targets immigrants with cruelty and impunity," organizers wrote in a social media post. Videos from the scene show several people shouting, "This is what democracy looks like" while holding signs with messages criticizing ICE and the Trump administration. On Monday evening, crowds began to clash with counter-protesters waving a "MAGA COUNTRY" flag. In one video taken by 10 Tampa Bay political reporter Aaron Parseghian, the two groups began pushing and shoving each other. Organizers noted that the protest is "rooted in nonviolence." Vernon Woodson was among those who attended and shared concerns he had about family members with ties to Mexico. He was among those who are also critical of the legal handling of deportations across the country in recent months. "I just want us to look at other humans like humans," Woodson said. "We treat dogs and cats better than we treat our fellow humans in this country right now." Yary Anaya, another protester, said she worries about family members with ties to Cuba being deported after recent months. "They are not what the president says," Anaya said. "This is not fair." The smaller group of counter-protesters remained on Kennedy Boulevard including Evan Sargent, who applauds the ramped-up enforcement of immigration policies, especially the state of Florida's initiatives. "Governor DeSantis is probably the greatest governor in America right now," he said. Florida has been leading the nation when it comes to state and local partnerships with ICE, in large part due to recent legislation signed by the governor. Last month, the largest immigration operation in state history was announced, leading to the arrest of 1,120 people, according to the governor's office. In a statement to 10 Tampa Bay, the Tampa Police Department said: "We recognize that individuals may choose to peacefully express their First Amendment rights and understand some members of the community may wish to do so through demonstrations. Our goal is to work together to ensure these events are safe, legal, and respect the rights of all." "We ask anyone who plans to participate in a demonstration to do so in a safe and responsible manner. The Tampa Police Department will continue its efforts to uphold the safety of everyone in the City of Tampa, fostering an environment where everyone can be heard and feel safe, equally."