Rep. Barbara Hernandez Issues Statement in Response to ICE Actions in Aurora Yesterday Morning, Urges Non-Violence

AURORA, Ill. – Yesterday morning, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers clashed with the local community while detaining individuals in Aurora and employing aggressive tactics, such as tear gas. State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, issued this statement in response:

“Yesterday, we witnessed the heartbreaking sight of masked men coming into our community and taking our neighbors away. We, as a community, need to join together and resist these intrusions with peaceful protest. I urge people to maintain nonviolent vigilance, despite the provocative tactics that these officers are often so quick to employ. Their callous eagerness to use overly aggressive means of enforcement-such as tear gas-is disgraceful, but greeting that with violence will only invite more harm. We can weather this storm together if we remain committed to peaceful resistance. If anyone needs assistance, please call 1-855-435-7693, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights hotline for resources.”