MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Supervisors Sky Z. Capriolo, Caroline Gómez-Tom, Jack Eckblad, Anne O’Connor, Willie Johnson Jr., Justin Bielinski, Sequanna Taylor, 1st Vice Chair Steven Shea, and 2nd Vice Chair Priscilla E. Coggs Jones issued the following statement today expressing outrage and deep sorrow following the fatal shooting of a woman by an ICE agent in Minnesota, encouraging neighbors to learn their rights, and condemning the use of deadly force while calling for accountability, transparency, and respect for human life:
“This killing is devastating and unacceptable. Regardless of immigration status or circumstance, no one should lose their life as a result of excessive or reckless use of force. We stand with the victim’s family and all communities who are grieving and demanding justice.”
Supervisors emphasized the importance of a full, independent investigation and accountability for those responsible; while also recognizing the fear, anger, and urgency many residents are feeling in response to recent federal immigration enforcement actions across the country.
“At moments like this, people want to speak out, to protest, and to demand change. That impulse is valid and necessary in a democracy. We will continue to encourage residents to raise their voices in ways that are peaceful, informed, and grounded in an understanding of their rights.”
Supervisors encouraged residents seeking information about lawful protest, civil rights, and civic engagement to consult trusted Milwaukee-based organizations that regularly provide guidance on these issues, including the ACLU of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Freedom Fund, Voces de la Frontera, Black Leaders Organizing for Communities (BLOC), Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee, Forward Latino, and the Milwaukee Turners.
“This is one more incident that pulls the veil back on the Trump administration’s claim to be interested in law and order or immigration enforcement. They have unleashed armed and poorly trained agents who fundamentally undermine the rule of law and safety of citizens. This practice must immediately end and the ICE agents pulled out of our cities.”
Supervisors also urged residents to contact their members of Congress and U.S. Senators to express their concerns, demand oversight, and advocate for changes to federal immigration enforcement policies.
“Our democracy depends on both accountability and participation. We condemn violence, we demand justice, and we encourage our community to remain engaged, informed, and united in the pursuit of dignity, safety, and human rights for all.”