1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

As your constituent and a deeply concerned voter, I urge you to co-sponsor the Dignity Not Deportations Act (H. 1588, S.1122), formally titled An Act relative to immigration detention and collaboration agreements. This bill would end voluntary ICE contracts in our state that facilitate mass deportations, and further ensure that our Massachusetts funds and resources are used appropriately for state and local priorities. The Dignity Not Deportations Act would prohibit Massachusetts entities, including sheriffs, from voluntarily renting beds to ICE. Further, it would prohibit Massachusetts entities from donating time and volunteering state resources to ICE by signing contracts - such as 287(g) agreements that deputize local officials as ICE agents. This urgent legislation would protect our immigrants neighbors, protect taxpayers, and protect our fundamental values as a Commonwealth by helping ensure the safety of our communities by reducing the likelihood of dehumanizing detention, mass deportation, and family separation. Indeed, there cannot be mass deportation without mass detention. The bill will also strengthen law enforcement in our communities by allowing all of our neighbors to better trust law enforcement when they are in need. I hope you will do the right thing and co-sponsor this vital legislation. Thank you for your time and consideration.