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." 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."