The Florida Immigration Coalition (FLIC) is calling on Miami city commissioners to end its partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which involves local police officers arresting illegal immigrants here in the state.
Some cities participate in the so-called federal 287(g) program, which allows local police officers to perform certain immigration duties on their behalf.
FLIC is calling on residents to voice their opposition in hopes of prompting the commission to end its cooperation with ICE.
“Miami’s decision to enter into the agreement is not mandated by state law; Miami relies on strong relationships with its residents and local government,” the group said.
FLIC says local faith leaders, civil rights groups and legal experts will testify at upcoming city meetings that the program “undermines public safety” and undermines trust between law enforcement and the communities it serves.
FLIC asserts that racial considerations play a role when local police officers and ICE agents arrest, detain, and interrogate individuals.
“In one of the most diverse cities in the country, skin color, accent, and even facial features pose a threat, and when immigrants fear that interactions with local police could lead to deportation or family separation, they are less likely to report crimes, cooperate with investigations, or seek emergency assistance, making neighborhoods less safe,” FLIC said.
Immigration issues helped propel President Trump to the White House in 2024. President Trump is torn between some key issues with voters, but one area Florida voters give him high praise for is border security, crime and handling the U.S. illegal immigration crisis.
