MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Forward Latino today reaffirmed its staunch support for the City of Milwaukee’s Law Enforcement Identification and anti-masking ordinance (Milwaukee Code of Ordinances § 105-140). The organization also praised the City Attorney’s defense of the
ordinance’s legality, and the significant role it plays in public safety and ensuring proper government accountability.

“Transparency and accountability are fundamental to maintaining public trust in law enforcement and legitimate government authority,” said Darryl D. Morin, National President of Forward Latino. “When federal agents exercise extraordinary authority to detain, arrest, or use force, the public should be able to clearly identify who is carrying out those actions.”

The use of masks by federal immigration agents during enforcement operations has created fear, confusion, and uncertainty in communities across the nation.

“We continue to see unlawful detentions, serious injuries and tragic losses of life suffered by both immigrants and U.S. citizens during enforcement operations conducted under current federal policies,” Morin said. “The routine use of masks by immigration agents only deepens public mistrust and makes accountability more difficult. Milwaukee’s ordinance reflects the principles Americans have long expected from law enforcement: professionalism, transparency, and accountability.”

Forward Latino commends the City of Milwaukee for adopting and defending this ordinance which strengthens public confidence while enhancing the safety of both residents and law enforcement personnel by ensuring immigration agents and other members of law enforcement remain identifiable.

“The City Attorney’s defense of this ordinance recognizes that transparency is not an obstacle to effective policing, it is one of its greatest strengths,” Morin added. “Legitimate government authority never hides behind a mask.”

About Forward Latino

Forward Latino is a national, 501c3 non-profit, non-partisan service and advocacy organization dedicated to empowering communities, strengthening democracy, and advancing civil rights. The organization works to address hate crimes, reduce gun violence, support veterans and working families, and develop the next generation of civic leaders. Through advocacy, education, and direct community engagement, Forward Latino helps Hispanic and other underserved communities meet the civic, economic, and social challenges of the 21st century.

For more information, visit www.forwardlatino.org.