In recent events in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, the local community is grappling with insecurity after four students were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). School district officials are voicing their fears and sadness following these incidents, which have affected the safety of their school environment.
Details of the Detentions
Incidents involving the children began on a Tuesday when ICE agents intercepted a 17-year-old boy en route to school. He was forcibly removed from his vehicle by officers. Later that day, 5-year-old Liam Ramos was taken alongside his father as they returned home from preschool. Reports indicate that the child was used as a means to gain entry into the home, which raised serious concerns among school officials.
Previous Incidents
- Two weeks prior, a 10-year-old girl was detained while being taken to elementary school.
- She was apprehended alongside her mother, resulting in her father rushing to the school after receiving a phone call from his daughter.
As a result, both children and their parents are currently being held in a detention center located in Texas. The family of Liam Ramos has an active asylum case and no deportation order, which adds further complexity to the situation.
Community Reactions
Superintendent Zena Stenvik expressed outrage at the apprehensions, particularly regarding the detention of young children. “Why detain a 5-year-old? This child cannot be considered a violent criminal,” she emphasized.
Call to Action
Officials are urging community members to contact their congressional representatives in pursuit of immediate intervention. Superintendent Stenvik called for support to restore safety within schools, advocating for environments where all students can thrive.
The school district has sought legal assistance to facilitate the return of the detained children. However, concerns remain as ICE operations appear to persist around school areas, leaving families anxious and vulnerable.
