In our community, children born on American soil are wrongfully witnessing parents being ripped out of vehicles, tackled from their properties, being held at gun point, removed from shelters, hospitals and educational ceremonies by ICE who are in unmarked clothing and vehicles. These young children are now afraid to show their face in public because they are living in fear of how Trumps Administration are allowing ICE to handle deportation. Resulting in premature minds being filled with depression and anxiety. Missing out on opportunities American children deserve. As a concerned resident and mother of Spokane, WA, it is heartbreaking to witness the profound stress and fear that surrounds many families due to the activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Our city's ethos and values are built on the principles of inclusion, harmony, and love for our neighbors. Yet, the looming presence of ICE creates a climate destroying individuals which is driving a wedge in our tight-knit community.

ICE's operations have been deporting individuals who are contributing positively to the community. Instilling fear in children merely trying to pursue an education, receiving medical treatment only the USA has, disrupting their path to achieving the American dream. Statistics show that ICE activities have led to thousands of family separations nationwide, echoing its detrimental impact on societal cohesion.

Federal Government state ICE will release the parents once acknowledging proof of the individual’s not having any prior convictions and no signs of danger to our community if they are leaving behind children who have nobody to care for them— my question and concerns are primarily dedicated to the children who are left without any source of fostering and safety prior to release. Leaving children homeless or in a shelter full of substance abuse and in my experience physical abuse. There has been over hundreds of parents deported from our city and not nearly enough fostering parents or children safety programs to step up and take action to care for these children who are left with nothing. If ICE is willing to let the parents return to their home in Spokane, why are they putting them and their kids through this sort of treatment and traumatizing experience in the first place? ICE NEEDS laws, regulations, and procedures to not harm these young minds. Where do they draw the line? I’ll tell you, there isn’t one.

By banning ICE in our community until they have appropriate procedures, treating immigrants as humans and not stray animals, our city can develop a better trust between the youth residents and law enforcement. Our mayors and council parties can invest more wisely in community initiatives that support immigrant families and enhance community safety. This will allow Spokane to build a united community.

Cities across America are taking a stance— Spokane should be a leader in this movement of protecting their residents, setting an example of compassion and understanding.

I'm calling upon our city officials to take immediate action. Stand against the Government allowing ICE to barge in zones where families and children are meant to feel safe. Let’s redirect Spokane's focus towards helping and ensuring children can go to school without fearing where they will eat and sleep tonight; and safeguarding the humane values our city holds dear.

Sign this petition to urge Spokane's decision-makers to protect us against ICE in our community and invest in supportive community-building initiatives instead. Let's champion an atmosphere where every family can thrive and no child fears the school bell.