Today Councilmember Eddie Lin (District 2) released the following statement regarding actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and yesterday’s killing of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis.
“Yesterday’s shooting death of a Minneapolis mother proves the dangers of Trump’s campaign of terror via ICE across our country.
“On January 7, 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good was shot and killed by U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Minneapolis. These officers appear to not only be acting with impunity, but the explicit approval and support of the president and his administration.
“ICE is tearing families apart, detaining people regardless of immigration status, often targeting people based on race and language. District 2, Seattle’s most racially diverse district, has already seen an uptick of activity by ICE and other federal officers.
“Let me be clear — ICE is not welcome in Seattle. We don’t want you here. As we see in Minneapolis, your lawless activity is not only threatening individuals and their families but the physical safety of all our residents.
“Residents should feel safe to be out in our community, going to work, school, or visiting friends and family. But currently, constituents are sharing that they are too afraid to leave their homes. This is heartbreaking and unacceptable.
“As the son of an immigrant, I am well aware of the incredible contributions immigrants and refugees make to our community, whether as healthcare workers, educators, scientists, engineers, drivers, restaurant workers, farm workers, or security guards, to name just a few. We should be celebrating and honoring our immigrant neighbors and family members, rather than tearing communities apart.
“Every Seattleite should feel safe in our city, regardless of immigration status. We will be working with the offices of Mayor Wilson, City Attorney Evans, and other Councilmembers – in coordination with the Seattle Police Department and other state and local agencies – to do everything in our power to protect our community from the cruel and unlawful actions of ICE.”
What can community members do?
Seattle’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA) works with partner organizations, including the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN). These groups offer valuable resources, trainings, and events serving immigrants, refugees, and anyone who wants to help support and care for these communities.
# # #