1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to you with urgency and deep concern regarding recent reports from Chicago that ICE agents carried out raids in the middle of the night where children were zip tied. This practice is well documented, profoundly cruel, and cannot be squared with the laws and values of our nation. It is a violation of basic human rights and stands in direct opposition to the duty of government to protect the vulnerable, not terrorize them. ICE has shown itself to be an agency beyond the responsible use of power. Its operations increasingly resemble military action against civilians, including children, rather than legitimate enforcement of immigration policy. The use of tactics such as night raids and restraints on minors has no place in a democratic society and constitutes a clear abuse of authority. When government agents treat children as enemies, it undermines both the rule of law and the trust of the people. I call on you to take immediate action to suspend ICE operations in Chicago and in all U.S. cities. Furthermore, I urge you to make a public statement denouncing ICE’s use of these practices and condemning the deployment of U.S. military-style force against children. This is not merely a matter of policy—it is a matter of basic morality and legality. Congress has the responsibility to rein in an agency that is acting outside the bounds of what is lawful and humane. Please act swiftly. The longer these abuses continue, the greater the damage done to families, communities, and to the legitimacy of our government.   Your silence signals approval of children being bound with zip ties in the middle of the night.  If you don't approve you must take action.