Diego Castillo demands Houston City Council end collaboration with ICE

During the recent Houston City Council meeting, community concerns regarding the collaboration between the Houston Police Department (HPD) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took center stage. Activist Diego Castillo passionately addressed the council, urging them to take a firm stance against what he described as troubling practices linked to ICE's operations in the city.

Castillo highlighted alarming statistics, noting that 58 calls had been made by ICE to HPD, raising questions about the extent of cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. He emphasized the human cost of these collaborations, citing that 12 individuals have died in ICE custody this year and that a significant 65 percent of those detained have no criminal convictions. Castillo's call to action was clear: he demanded an end to all collaboration with ICE and greater transparency regarding data sharing between the agencies.

The activist framed his arguments within a broader context of community identity, asserting that Houston is a city of immigrants and diversity. He urged the council to reject what he termed a "fascist takeover" and to protect the rights of all residents, regardless of their background. Castillo's remarks resonated with many in attendance, reflecting a growing sentiment among constituents who are increasingly concerned about immigration policies and their implications for local communities.

Following Castillo, attorney Gerard Lynch, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, also spoke, indicating that the issue of ICE collaboration is gaining traction among various community groups. The discussions at the meeting underscored a critical moment for the city council as they navigate the complexities of immigration enforcement and community safety.

As the council continues to deliberate on these pressing issues, the calls for action from community members like Castillo and Lynch highlight the urgent need for policies that prioritize the rights and dignity of all residents in Houston. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the city's approach to immigration enforcement and its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all.