Amidst ongoing political tension, John Leguizamo has made headlines by urging fans to “unfollow” him if they support U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This statement comes in the wake of the tragic shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, which occurred during a federal immigration operation in Minneapolis.
John Leguizamo Takes a Stand Against ICE Supporters
In a video posted on January 28, Leguizamo expressed his disapproval of ICE and its supporters. He stated that if individuals back ICE, they should not attend his performances or watch his films. The comedian’s stance reflects a growing backlash against the agency following recent incidents involving federal agents.
The Shooting of Alex Pretti
Pretti was shot by Border Patrol agents on January 24, during an enforcement operation. This incident, alongside the earlier fatal shooting of another individual, Renee Good, has sparked outrage and led to calls for accountability. As a result of the shooting, the agents involved were placed on administrative leave, a typical measure following such incidents.
Political Repercussions
The shooting has heightened tensions within the Republican Party and raised the possibility of a partial government shutdown. Critics, including some Republicans, have voiced concerns about the actions of Border Patrol in Minneapolis, pointing to a broader debate surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S.
Public Response and Protests
In addition to Leguizamo’s comments, a coalition of artists, including Lin-Manuel Miranda and Constance Wu, is organizing a protest against ICE. The event, entitled “The People’s Filibuster,” is scheduled for January 31 at The Public Theater in New York City. This gathering aims to highlight issues regarding state-sanctioned violence and the importance of human rights.
Key Facts Summary
- Incident Date: January 24, 2023
- Victim: Alex Pretti, 37, an ICU nurse
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Status of Agents: Placed on administrative leave
- Protest Event: “The People’s Filibuster” on January 31, 2023
Leguizamo’s and other artists’ calls for action reflect a significant cultural pushback against policies related to immigration enforcement in the United States. They emphasize the collaborative effort required to address issues of violence and human rights within immigration proceedings.
