1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing as a community member who is deeply concerned about the continued expansion and funding of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including its presence and operations in Pittsburgh. I believe that increasing ICE funding does not make our communities safer. Instead, it creates fear, destabilizes families, and undermines trust in schools, workplaces, health care, and local services. When people are afraid of deportation, they are less likely to report crimes, seek medical care, or send their children to school. This weakens the entire community. I am also concerned that ICE’s warrantless home entry policy violates the Fourth Amendment. No agency should have the power to enter people’s homes without judicial oversight. This is not only a civil rights issue. It is a constitutional one. Pittsburgh has long been a city that values neighbors, workers, and families. I want our leaders to reflect those values by supporting policies that prioritize dignity, due process, and community-based solutions rather than detention and deportation. I urge you to oppose any legislation or budget that increases funding for ICE and to support approaches that protect families, workers, and children instead.