More than 600 state legislators from across 48 states have issued a joint statement condemning the actions of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The statement specifically addresses the ongoing presence of federal agents and the deaths of Alex Pretti, Renee Nicole Good, and others.
Legislators Voice Concerns Over Federal Actions
The legislators contend the nation is at a “decisive moment” and that the presence of “armed masked federal agents” engaging in what they describe as “wanton destruction” threatens the foundational values of American democracy. The statement highlights the recent killings of two U.S. citizens by ICE and Border Patrol agents, both captured on camera, and expresses concern over the federal government’s response.
According to the statement, the majority of ICE arrests occur without evidence of criminal activity, and constitutional rights to due process and protection from unreasonable search and seizure are being violated. A leaked memo reportedly sanctions these violations within DHS.
Demands for Action
The legislators are demanding the immediate withdrawal of ICE and Border Patrol agents from Minnesota. They are also calling for a “full and independent investigation” into the deaths of Renee Good, Alex Pretti, and others over the past year. The statement concludes with demands for the restoration of American values, an end to “abductions and killings,” and a cessation of Congressional funding for ICE.
Illinois State Representative Camille Y. Lilly, a signatory to the statement, described the current situation as “unprecedented,” noting that federal agents have fatally shot two unarmed U.S. citizens on camera in the past month. “We cannot allow more lives to be lost so that an agenda rooted in outright hate can be pushed forward,” Lilly stated.
Representative Lilly has also taken action within Illinois, passing House Bill 1312 to protect individuals from ICE violence in sensitive locations like hospitals and daycares, and House Resolution 622, which condemns federal violence and calls for the resignation or impeachment of DHS Secretary Noem.
The full joint statement is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific actions are legislators demanding?
The legislators are demanding the immediate withdrawal of ICE and Border Patrol agents from Minnesota, a full and independent investigation into recent deaths, an end to federal “abductions and killings,” and a cessation of Congressional funding for ICE.
What is the basis for the legislators’ concerns about ICE arrests?
The statement asserts that the vast majority of ICE arrests are of individuals with no criminal record and that due process and search and seizure rights are being violated, with these violations reportedly sanctioned by a leaked DHS memo.
What actions has Representative Lilly taken in Illinois?
Representative Lilly passed House Bill 1312, protecting people from ICE violence in locations including hospitals, courthouses and daycares, and House Resolution 622, condemning federal violence and calling for the DHS Secretary’s resignation or impeachment.
How might this statement influence future policy regarding federal immigration enforcement?
