1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the treatment of children and families during ICE operations, as well as the broader issues surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S. The recent violent incident in Worcester, Massachusetts—where a Black Latin teenage girl and her infant grandchild were forcibly detained—raises urgent questions about ICE’s practices and accountability. As someone from Arizona, I am particularly aware of the consequences of unchecked immigration enforcement. The abuses committed under former Sheriff Joe Arpaio—including unconstitutional racial profiling and violations of human rights—are a painful reminder of what happens when agencies operate without proper oversight. While Arpaio was eventually held accountable in court, the systemic harm caused by his policies continues to impact communities today. ICE’s recent actions reflect the same disregard for due process and humane treatment that we fought against in Arizona. Additionally, immigration authority has historically extended beyond Congress, with the executive branch playing a vital role in shaping enforcement policies and humanitarian protections. Strict opposition to amnesty disregards the economic benefits and workforce stability that a pathway to legal status provides. Past bipartisan efforts, such as the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act, have demonstrated that legalization programs can bring undocumented workers into the tax system, benefiting the country rather than leaving people in limbo. Furthermore, immigration should not be viewed solely as a legal infraction. The United States has long benefited from immigrants’ contributions in economic growth, labor markets, and cultural diversity. Treating immigration primarily as a crime ignores the humanitarian and economic realities that shape the issue. Policies must prioritize due process, protect children from unnecessary harm, and offer fair paths to legal status rather than relying solely on enforcement measures. I urge you to take decisive action to ensure that ICE and other immigration agencies operate with transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights. Specifically, I ask that you: - Call for an independent review of ICE enforcement practices, particularly involving minors. - Advocate for strict oversight to prevent unlawful detentions and excessive force. - Demand policies that require ICE to provide warrants for arrests in public spaces. - Support legislation that balances humane immigration pathways with accountability for enforcement agencies. Arizona has already witnessed the consequences of unchecked immigration enforcement, and we cannot allow history to repeat itself at the federal level. The people of our state—and the country—deserve leadership that prioritizes justice, humanity, and responsible governance. I look forward to your response and urge you to address what steps you will take to prevent further harm.