Carol Rose, executive director of the ACLU of Massachusetts, today released the following statement in response to recent reports that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has scheduled nationwide raids:
"The Trump administration and ICE are intentionally creating fear and chaos by announcing plans to target families for deportation. Our communities shouldn’t have to live in fear that parents won't come home from work, that kids won't return from school, or that a knock at the door could rip a family apart. We cannot—and will not—sit idly by while the Trump administration threatens another inhumane and xenophobic attack on asylum seekers and immigrants.
“The full power of the ACLU will continue to hold the Trump administration accountable in communities, in the courts, and in statehouses across the country. Here in Massachusetts, we must act urgently to ensure that our state resources and local law enforcement are not used to facilitate deportations and fuel family separation.”
Background:
According to recent news reports, nationwide raids to arrest thousands of members of undocumented families are scheduled to begin Sunday, July 14. The operation is expected to take place in at least 10 major cities. Boston has not been named as a target city in news reports.
The ACLU is urging undocumented families and people to familiarize themselves with “Know Your Rights” materials. People have guaranteed rights under the Constitution, regardless of immigration status.
People who are impacted in Boston and Eastern Massachusetts can call the ACLU of Massachusetts at 617-482-3170 to be connected with local rapid response networks and attorneys. People who are impacted in Western Massachusetts can call the ACLU of Massachusetts’ Immigrant Protection Project at 413-727-8515.
