ICE, DHS, and our Obligation to Humanity

We were told immigration authorities would only arrest and deport convicted criminals; that was a lie.

Yesterday, immigration authorities killed Alex Jeffrey Pretti in Minnesota. Another outrage and tragedy to add to the killing of Renee Good and the 32 people who died in ICE custody last year. Meanwhile, ICE continues to invade communities in our neighboring state of Maine and harass and detain people in New Hampshire.

I’m hearing from a lot of people in our district who are fearful and angry and who want to do something to stop this violence. I share their anger, their grief, and their righteous demand for justice. In moments like these, we must care for the people in our communities and align our actions with our values by speaking out against injustice and taking action in defense of basic human dignity and our neighbors’ lives.

And we must be clear: there will be consequences for the people who terrorize immigrant communities, kill innocent people, and trample our human rights.

I will not rest until every person and organization responsible, from the federal government to the state and local officials that collaborate with them, are held accountable. We will not forget, and we cannot relent in the pursuit of truth and justice.

Congress should not approve a penny of funding for any agency, ICE or otherwise, that violates the rights of the people. For those politicians who do vote to fund ICE and other lawless agencies, this violence should weigh on your conscience, and you will have to answer for your complicity.

I call on everyone to stand up in our communities and demand that our local and state officials refuse to collaborate with ICE. Here in NH that means going to your deliberative session, showing up at your county commissioner’s meeting, writing to your state representatives and senator, executive councilor, and Governor Ayotte and demanding that we get ICE out of NH.

That is why I spoke at the Rockingham County Commissioners meeting on Thursday. Currently, our county commissioners are considering whether to enter into a partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to use our county jail to hold people who have been detained by ICE. I say: HELL NO.

These conversations are taking place at a time when many people in our communities feel angry, afraid, and uncertain. Thoughtful and persistent public engagement; showing up, listening, and speaking with care, matters.

The next Board of Commissioners meeting is Thursday, January 29 at 1pm at the Rockingham County Municipal Building: 94 North Road, Brentwood NH. I hope all who feel moved will attend, participate in public comment, and speak against the proposed contract with ICE.