ACDCVA Shares Statement from the Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs
Editor’s Note:
We’re sharing this statement from the Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs to keep our members and community informed about concerns surrounding immigration enforcement practices and their impact on public trust and civil liberties. We believe it’s important to elevate credible reporting and encourage thoughtful, informed engagement with our elected leaders.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Tina Winkler, Chair of Chairs
Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs
twinkler11@me.com
Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs Condemns DHS Immigration Enforcement Tactics and Calls for Accountability
Richmond, VA — The Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs (VADC) strongly condemns the conduct of the Department of Homeland Security, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in their recent immigration enforcement operations. VADC calls for immediate restraint, transparency, and accountability from DHS leadership.
The unnecessary fatal shootings of Renée Nicole Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis are among the most recent incidents raising serious concerns about the use of force and the failure to follow de-escalation protocols. A recent Reuters investigation reported that official accounts of several DHS encounters were contradicted by verified video and other evidence—deepening public concern and eroding trust.
Beyond these tragic deaths, communities across the country have documented troubling patterns of aggressive enforcement tactics that heighten fear, disregard civil liberties, and sweep in individuals who pose no threat to public safety. Publicly available detention data further underscore the gap between DHS rhetoric and reality. According to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), a large majority of individuals held in ICE detention have no criminal conviction.
VADC appreciates Abigail Spanberger for publicly expressing concern about the aggressive and violent tactics ICE has used around the country. The Association also opposes any effort to establish new immigration detention centers in the Commonwealth and urges elected officials to use every lawful tool available to protect the safety and rights of Virginians.
VADC further encourages members of the public to contact Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, urging them to remain steadfast in withholding support for DHS funding unless meaningful reforms are enacted.
Despite our nation’s complicated history, the United States has long aspired to welcome newcomers with dignity and hope. That principle must continue to guide us. VADC rejects the random and accelerating violence directed against innocent Americans and calls for a return to humane, lawful, and accountable immigration enforcement.
Tina Winkler
Chair of Chairs
Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs
twinkler11@me.com
315-427-6245