MONTPELIER – The topic of the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or ICE, weighed heavily on the minds of many legislators recently. The Governor made a strong statement saying “enough is enough” about the tactics being used by ICE to make America safer from violent illegal immigrants. The governor made it clear that due process, the rule of law and our constitution were being trampled on, and enough was enough. The murder of two Minnesota citizens in Minneapolis shocked the country and moved the governor.
Legislators were pulled into the debate on ICE when two Independent legislators offered a resolution calling on the House of Representatives to support the governor’s sentiments and decry the strong-arm ICE actions against minority populations, irrespective of whether they had a criminal past. One of the sponsors of the resolution made it clear that she was not typically a fan of the Vermont Legislature focusing on national issues, given the numerous local issues that needed attention. She argued this time was different. An outright assault on our constitution by our government and an infringement on our freedom of speech and right to peacefully demonstrate called for us to act.
The resolution passed on a 106 to 25 vote with 18 absences. The reasons to vote one way or another varied greatly. This vote will not be the last time House members will vote on ICE. Proposed legislation would stop law enforcement officials from wearing masks as ICE agents do, and all law enforcement officials would be required to wear cameras. I expect these efforts to pass by large margins.
As I reflect on the ICE vote, I cannot help but feel a great sadness for the law-abiding minorities who live in fear, persecuted by misguided government officials whose hearts have been hardened by hate. Yet I am hopeful we will come out on the other side stronger, where the dignity of decency helps to restore the kindness, we need.
David Yacavone represents Lamoille-Washington in the Vermont Legislature, including Elmore, Morristown, Woodbury, Worcester and Stowe.
