MILWAUKEE — A growing number of Wisconsin sheriff’s offices have signed agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), fueling concerns among Latino advocacy groups and immigrant families.
The ICE Warrant Service Officer program has reached agreements with law enforcement in nine Wisconsin counties. The program trains and authorizes local officers to execute federal immigration warrants.
While officials say the move strengthens enforcement, immigrant rights groups warn that it may lead to increased deportations and displacement.
At Voces de la Frontera, a Milwaukee-based immigrant rights and labor advocacy group, demand for legal assistance and “Know Your Rights” training has surged.
Ari Antreassian is the group’s organizing director. He said the community is bracing for potential ICE raids.
“We have seen just a lot of people coming in for various reasons, but definitely, there is a need in the community,” said Antreassian. “We have seen that influx of people and we are trying to do as much as we can.”
National advocacy organizations are also taking notice. Forward Latino is a group focused on Latino civic engagement.
It said that it has ramped up efforts to provide families with legal tools — including power of attorney forms — to ensure children are not left stranded if parents are detained.
“We put together an emergency toolkit for families in risk of separation, and that’s what we are talking about,” said Morin. “What’s going to happen to your son or daughter if something happens and you’re detained? Who’s going to be authorized to pick them up from school?”
While there have been no confirmed ICE raids in Wisconsin, Morin said families are preparing for the worst-case scenario.
“Our biggest concerns are for the overwhelming majority of individuals who have been here for an extended period of time,” said Morin. “They are working in our factories and shops, been supporting our communities and quite frankly, worshipping in the pews in church.”
For Antreassian, the focus remains on organizing and education.
“What we want is for people to feel empowered, to join us, to use their voice, and to get organized with us and get involved,” he said.