I’m writing in favor of the proposed ordinance before Allegheny County Council that bars elected officials and county employees from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents unless ordered by a federal judge.
The chaos and tragedies in Minnesota, throughout the country and now in Allegheny County have once again demonstrated that the presence of ICE in our neighborhoods is disruptive, harmful and deadly. ICE agents have killed eight people so far in 2026. They have repeatedly used excessive force, disguised themselves and lied to gain access to restricted areas. They have detained children and their parents at schools and places of worship.
The Trump administration will not take action to rein in federal law enforcement, which leaves the responsibility to state and local governments. Allegheny County Council should do everything in its power to keep ICE out of our neighborhoods and ensure that county officials and staff are not complicit in this hate-driven rampage.
County council members should co-sponsor the bill, move it out of the public safety committee, bring it up for a vote as soon as possible and vote yes.
Olivia Perfetti
Squirrel Hill