Fund Drive Special: Journalist Akela Lacy Breaks Down How the Government Is Criminalizing Protest and Dissent and veteran journalist Chris Hedges on Survival and Resistance in Occupied Palestine

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On this edition of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D dives into the alarming escalation of government crackdowns on protest with guest Akela Lacy, senior politics reporter at The Intercept and co-host of The Intercept Briefing podcast. At the center of their conversation is Lacy’s recent investigation into how ICE and federal agents are criminalizing those who resist immigration raids—not just migrants themselves, but anyone providing aid, protesting, or even identifying the agents involved.

Lacy details the case of Alejandro Orellana, a young man indicted simply for handing out face shields to protesters following Trump’s deployment of the National Guard to L.A. These were protective shields used to defend against rubber bullets and tear gas—common non-lethal weapons used on demonstrators. Still, prosecutors are arguing this act constitutes “aiding in civil disorder,” pushing a dangerous narrative that equates self-defense with aggression.

The conversation highlights how this legal framework is being used to target broader acts of resistance. According to Lacy, ICE agents are now going after individuals accused of “doxing” by identifying agents online—even though these agents often operate in unmarked vans and without visible badges, abducting people off the street. In one case, ICE raided a family home in Irvine, CA, over suspicions their son posted flyers with agent info. In another, protesters who organized bail funds or posted police misconduct flyers—as seen during Atlanta’s Cop City protests—are being hit with RICO charges.

Davey D draws parallels between these tactics and historical attacks on dissent, such as Arizona’s attempts to criminalize those who left water for migrants crossing the desert. He also raises concerns about unaccountable ICE operatives acting under federal cover, possibly without proper training or oversight—further blurring lines of responsibility and justice.

Throughout the interview, Lacy stresses that while the legislative push to formalize these crackdowns (like the “anti-doxing” bill introduced by Sen. Marsha Blackburn) may not yet be law, they still shape policy and intimidate activists. Meanwhile, federal agencies are signaling their intent to pressure media outlets and even journalists who publish identifying details about ICE agents, raising serious First Amendment concerns.

Despite the bleak outlook, Lacy encourages listeners to remain engaged. She urges communities to stay informed, support local resistance efforts, and build solidarity with those directly impacted. The judiciary may offer some temporary relief—as seen in a recent ruling ordering ICE to halt indiscriminate raids in Los Angeles—but lasting resistance will come from collective vigilance.

As Davey D puts it, knowing your community is a first line of defense. When the state moves in shadows, transparency becomes a revolutionary act.

Later we present to you famed journalist Chris Hedges. Chris Hedges speaks at the First Congregational Church of Oakland on Thursday, May 29th at his book release event sponsored by KPFA, A Genocide Foretold: Reporting on Survival and Resistance in Occupied Palestine. Chris speaks in depth on his recent experience just coming back from Egypt and speaking to Palestinian refugees there and so much more. A profound evening with Chris Hedges and his profound knowledge of geopolitical history and tempered with his compassion for all the victims of war including the combatants. Hosted by Law & Disorder’s Cat Brooks. Cat starts off the evening with a powerful introduction and ends off the talk with an extensive question and answer period with the audience.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post Fund Drive Special: Journalist Akela Lacy Breaks Down How the Government Is Criminalizing Protest and Dissent and veteran journalist Chris Hedges on Survival and Resistance in Occupied Palestine appeared first on KPFA.

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