Cleveland community leaders advocate for immigrant protections against ICE raids

Cleveland City Council members are facing increasing pressure to adopt stronger protections for immigrants following a series of emotional testimonies during the February 3, 2025, meeting. Advocates from various community organizations urged the council to take decisive action against federal immigration enforcement, particularly in light of recent ICE raids that have left many families in fear.

Annie McEnany, representing the Cleveland Liberation Center, emphasized the need for concrete policies to safeguard the immigrant community. She called for legislation that would prevent local police from collaborating with federal immigration authorities, prohibit ICE from entering jails without a judicial warrant, and ensure that immigrant information is not shared with the federal government. McEnany urged the council to declare Cleveland a sanctuary city, echoing sentiments shared by other community members.

Riley Petro, a representative of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, expressed gratitude to city leaders who have spoken out against unlawful deportations but criticized the council for not taking more immediate legislative action. He highlighted the urgency of protecting vulnerable populations from the terror of ICE raids, which he described as a direct result of the current federal administration's policies.

Andre Daley, a community member, passionately argued against ICE's presence in schools, stating that children should not have to face the trauma of federal enforcement in their learning environments. He called on the council to ensure that schools remain safe havens for all students.

Justin Evaristo, representing the Democratic Socialists of America, echoed these concerns, stressing the need for the council to take meaningful action rather than relying on empty statements. He urged council members to join community efforts to build grassroots power and protect immigrant rights.

Sarah Fadlala connected the struggles of immigrant communities with broader issues of surveillance and policing, advocating for the city to defund ineffective surveillance technologies that disproportionately affect marginalized neighborhoods. She called for a united front against both ICE raids and over-policing, urging the council to take a stand for justice and safety for all Cleveland residents.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from community advocates: the time for action is now. As Cleveland grapples with the implications of federal immigration policies, the council faces mounting pressure to enact legislation that prioritizes the safety and dignity of all its residents. The next steps will be crucial in determining how the city responds to these urgent calls for change.