ICE-related Shootings Spark Massive Protests
In light of a recent shooting involving ICE agents in Minneapolis, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, on Thursday, urged two commercial airlines to cease their flights for ICE. The intention? To speed up the deportation of detained undocumented immigrants.
In her letter to the airline executives, Healey expressed concern that these individuals face rejection from their families, communities, and even legal representatives without appropriate legal procedures. “They contribute significantly to our community and are loved by many, yet they are unfairly targeted for deportation,” she noted. “Some were citizens, others were children. As we’ve seen in Minnesota and other areas, ICE’s methods are increasingly chaotic and even deadly. Such actions don’t enhance our safety; on the contrary, they make us all more vulnerable.”
Renee Nicole Good, aged 37, was killed by an ICE agent when she reportedly drove her car toward them during an immigration check on Wednesday.
Furthermore, Healey criticized the Trump administration for utilizing private jets for ICE operations, implying that it’s a wasteful expenditure that harms taxpayers while favoring commercial airlines. “It’s hard to understand why the Trump administration is choosing to spend immense amounts on private flights to hinder justice for citizens while cutting essential benefits and healthcare access,” she stated. “This is not the justice we advocate for in Massachusetts or as Americans, and we trust your company feels the same.”
Healey’s appeal also highlighted a previous call to halt ICE flights from Hanscom Field Airport, located around 20 miles from Boston. Notably, Avero Airlines, which previously provided charter services to ICE in Massachusetts, recently announced it has ended its contract with the agency.
“One of your peers in the airline industry has already severed ties with ICE. It’s time for you to follow suit,” Healey urged in her correspondence. As of now, there has been no further comment from Healey’s office regarding this matter.
