ICE has drawn down its agents in Minnesota but significantly increased its presence in Pennsylvania. Maybe they think they will have better luck in Pennsylvania because we are a purple state.
But the issue with ICE is not a blue or red problem; it is a constitutional, law and order issue. We have all seen how they act with excessive force, without “probable cause,” with illegal detention of individuals, including citizens, without due process. They enter homes without judicial warrants and they make arrests based on racial profiling, violating equal protection principles. There had been no accountability for these unconstitutional actions. They are not seeking to keep the peace or uphold law and order but instead to frighten and intimidate, to cause chaos and disorder.
We cannot let Pennsylvania become another Minnesota. We do not want the modern-day version of the KKK terrorizing our residents. Contact your local and county officials, attend their meetings, call their offices (Westmoreland County Commissioners 724-830-3106). Tell them you want them to pass ordinances to restrict ICE’s illegal activity and to rescind the sheriff’s 287(g) agreement.
State and federal officials can also help (Capitol switchboard — 202-224-3121). Let’s show the world that Pennsylvanians are not afraid to say no to corrupt, undemocratic, unlawful actions.
Joanne Garing
North Huntingdon