Last year, my school in North Ogden organized a protest against the presence and operations of ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in our city. That day is still etched in my memory as I stood with friends and classmates, listening to heartbreaking stories that unfolded one after another. Stories of families torn apart, lives uprooted, and the pervasive fear that grips our community.

One story that particularly struck me was of a young girl whose father was abruptly taken from her. This tragic event left her in a state of financial instability, battling depression with this loss. Another classmate shared her perpetual anxiety, a feeling that boils whenever she returns home to her immigrant parents, scared that any day could be the last time she sees them.

I recall a boy weeping as he shared how his cousin was forced into foster care when ICE agents detained her parents. It’s unfathomable to think children have to carry such heavy burdens, constantly worried about losing those they love. These are more than stories; these are lives in my community being shattered by unjust immigration enforcement.

The protest was life changing. I am here now to make a bigger change.

As a unified community in Ogden, it is time to take action and advocate for the protection of these families. ICE's presence in our city has caused significant distress and divided communities through relentless practices that instill fear among law-abiding families.

I am calling upon local officials and lawmakers to address this pressing issue by making it illegal for ICE to operate within Ogden's boundaries. Instead, let's foster a welcoming environment where immigrants are treated humanely, understanding their contributions and hardships.

Eliminating ICE’s operations in our city requires us to urge our officials to pressure federal authorities to adopt humane immigration practices. By signing this petition, you are voicing your support for keeping our families together, safeguarding children, and restoring peace back into their lives.

Please help be the catalyst for change, allowing Ogden to be a symbol of compassion and unity by signing this petition. Let’s demand action today to protect our friends, families, and neighbors from the traumatic impact of ICE operations in our city.