Community leaders in Columbus rally to support immigrant families amid recent ICE activities.
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Several community events were held Saturday as organizers and state leaders addressed recent ICE activity in Columbus and showed support for immigrant families.
“We’re doing food drives right now, where folks are unable to come out, they’re scared they can’t even go grocery shopping,” State Rep. Ismail Mohamed said.
“I understand at this time people are severely scared, not only are they afraid, they are agitated, not only are they agitated, they are angry,” State Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey said.
On Friday, ICE said officers are continuing arrests nationwide, including in Columbus, calling the actions part of their ongoing effort to enforce federal immigration laws and protect public safety.
Sen. Bernie Moreno shared similar views with 10TV.
“Well, look, what we’re doing with ICE is very simple. If people are here in this country illegally, they have to be apprehended and deported. I think most Americans would agree with that. So, it’s not a very difficult thing to wrap your head around,” Moreno said.
On Parsons Avenue, it was standing room only as crowds gathered to help residents understand their rights.
“There is a lot of rhetoric that is detrimental to those communities, so we are out there letting everybody know they are not alone, we are standing in solidarity with them,” Kiera Toliver, organizer with the Party for Socialism and Liberation, said.
This week, city leaders shared that the Columbus Division of Police will not investigate Columbus residents solely based on immigration status.
At last check, ICE said at least two people were arrested in Columbus this week.