SPRINGFIELD – Following an increase in anti-immigration tactics utilized by the federal government, the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus (ILLC) restates its support for immigrants across the country.
The ILLC condemns recent federal actions expanding mass deportation efforts by targeting individuals with legal immigration status, including U.S. citizens and international students. The ILLC is concerned about recent reports that the federal administration is detaining individuals with proper documentation, including lawful permanent residents and visa holders, and detaining individuals based on their perceived immigration status. The ILLC released the following statement:
“Ordering the arrest and deportation of numerous individuals by revoking their protected status without due process sets a precedent for dehumanizing tactics and government overreach that threatens the security of immigrants across the U.S.
“Additionally, the federal government has set a dangerous notion that individuals advocating for causes that defy the opinions of the federal administration will be subject to retaliation and their voice be stifled with threats of deportation, undermining their freedom of speech.
“This comes after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is alleged to have unlawfully detained a U.S. citizen in Berwyn and a local business owner from Chicago outside of his home in late January despite a federal settlement that outlines requirements for warrantless arrests in the Chicago area.
“The discriminatory tactics exercised by this federal administration are evident with an estimated 700 visas revoked from students across the country, including here in Illinois.
“Our nation was created and built by immigrants looking for a home where they could freely worship, be free from government retribution and build economic security. The growing anti-immigrant tactics utilized by the federal administration are contradictory to the American ideals of freedom and justice our country was founded on.
“It is clear that the federal administration does not regard a person’s citizenship or immigration status as it has fixated on upholding a dehumanizing agenda that purposefully harms communities of color and other marginalized groups with its blatant disregard for constitutional rights and potentially defying federal court orders.
“The liberties granted to us by the constitution – regardless of immigration status – must not be undermined.”
The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus remains on high alert against any attempts to disrupt or harm Illinois’ immigrant communities. The Caucus will continue working with elected officials across the state and community partners to ensure immigrant communities are informed and have access to critical resources.
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