People of color and legal citizens with no criminal records, including children and those with disabilities, are being wrongfully targeted and detained by ICE agents across the country. This is not only a grave injustice but also instills fear among these communities, preventing them from even utilizing basic amenities like airports. At Bradley International Airport, where ICE maintains a presence, this fear is tangible, deterring many from traveling altogether.

The original purpose of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was to uphold immigration laws and secure our nation. However, its current focus at airports like Bradley appears misaligned with these goals. Instead of targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds, many lawful residents and citizens of color feel unfairly profiled, exacerbating racial tensions and fostering distrust in legal institutions meant to protect them.

The statistics support this disturbing trend. According to data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), the most frequent offenses leading to ICE arrests are minor, contrasting sharply with the severe criminal dealings ICE was established to curb. Furthermore, research from the American Immigration Council reveals that monitoring by ICE could discourage airport use and, by extension, impact the economic health of the region.

Bradley International Airport serves as a crucial hub for Connecticut and its surrounding areas, drawing travelers who contribute significantly to the local economy. By removing ICE from this location, we can begin to restore trust and ensure that these travelers, particularly those of color and of immigrant descent, feel safe and welcome.

Concrete action means reallocating ICE's resources to focus on legitimate security threats and criminal activity rather than intimidating law-abiding residents engaging in normal travel activities. A safer and more just nation can coexist with secure borders if these resources are properly managed.

Stand with us in calling for the removal of ICE from Bradley International Airport. It’s time to prioritize human rights, build community trust, and ensure that every person who calls this country home can travel without fear or harassment. Let’s make Bradley International a symbol of safety and inclusion for all travelers. Sign this petition today to urge relevant authorities to take immediate action.