by Karla Ciaglo CTNewsJunkie
HARTFORD, CT – The Legislative Black and Puerto Rican Caucus expressed concern Monday over the increasing US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity across Connecticut and elsewhere.
The heightened ICE presence in Bridgeport, suburban lower Fairfield County, the Willimantic section of Windham, and on Park Street in Hartford where the Latino population is significant, has prompted alarm. They highlighted an incident involving the detention of a Puerto Rican military veteran during an ICE raid at a seafood store in Newark, New Jersey.
In a statement, the caucus raised concerns about potential profiling based on language or appearance, emphasizing that Puerto Ricans are US citizens as residents of a US territory. Rep. Antonio Felipe, a Bridgeport Democrat who chairs the caucus, said characteristics such as speaking another language or having a different complexion should not determine a person’s patriotism or threat level. He argued that these actions contradict the nation’s identity as a melting pot and a place of opportunity.
Rep. Derell Wilson, a Norwich Democrat who serves as vice chair of the caucus, highlighted former President George W. Bush’s acknowledgment of immigrants’ contributions to America’s identity and success. The caucus reiterated that ICE operations should focus on individuals who pose legitimate threats to public safety, rather than targeting broader immigrant communities.
The caucus also called on Connecticut’s community leaders to protect their neighbors and vowed to collaborate with federal representatives to ensure oversight and fairness in ICE operations. They emphasized their commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of all residents, especially those who contribute positively to their communities and care for their families.
Attorney Mark Arons of Bridgeport underscored the importance of understanding your legal rights during ICE encounters. He clarified that federal agents need a warrant signed by a judge to raid private property. Without the correct warrant, the action would be unconstitutional, though Arons noted that agents may not always comply with demands to show a warrant. He advised undocumented individuals to consider applying for asylum as part of safeguarding their rights.
The growing concerns reflect wider unease across the nation following executive orders signed by President Donald Trump aimed at expanding immigration enforcement. These orders have bolstered ICE’s authority, resulting in an increase in raids and detentions, which have contributed to fear and uncertainty within immigrant and minority communities.
In response, advocacy groups and community leaders have mobilized to offer resources, legal support, and education to help those at risk know their rights.
West Hartford Superintendent of Schools Paul Vicinus sent a note to parents Monday addressing community concerns about the impact of national immigration enforcement policies on local schools.
Vicinus said that West Hartford Public Schools are welcoming spaces for all children and are legally required by the US Supreme Court to educate every child living in the district, regardless of immigration status. While immigration status is not tracked and enforcement actions by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement within schools are rare, the district has reviewed and updated visitor procedures, undergone legal reviews, and provided staff training to ensure preparedness.
Vicinus reassured the community of the district’s commitment to student safety, well-being, and support, and ongoing collaboration with local and state officials to address concerns.
A 2016 study estimated that mass deportation, if implemented in Connecticut, would result in a significant decline in the state’s GDP. The study projected a $6.03 billion loss annually, representing a 2.5% decrease in state GDP. The loss would be driven by workforce reductions across key industries, particularly those reliant on immigrant labor. Key sectors such as financial activities, manufacturing, and construction were expected to experience the largest contractions in output, with significant reductions in GDP.
However, given the increase in Connecticut’s labor shortage since 2016, the study is likely underestimating the economic consequences of mass deportation in Connecticut today.