SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Anti-ICE protests continue across the country and locally as protestors gathered at Courthouse Square in Downtown Scranton expressing frustration with ICE’s presence in the region and calling for the agency’s removal from Northeastern Pennsylvania.
The demonstration was also held in response to nationwide outrage following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, which has fueled tensions.
Protestor Angela Brigido spoke about the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good, calling ICE’s role in the removal of immigrants “horrific” and criticizing the agency’s tactics following Good’s death at the hands of an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
“I think it’s a disgrace that we have to be subjected to this type of violence on our streets. We did not ask for this. We did not vote for this. This is wrong. This poor woman died. She left behind a son. She left behind other children. It’s just not fair. It’s not right. And the tragedies that are happening. Families being separated. It’s pure terror and horror. And right now, I feel like we’re living through horror,” said Brigido.
Britain Perry Giblin said he took to the streets to speak out against what he describes as unjust deportation practices under the current administration.
“I’m here because I believe that the administration should not be deporting our friends and neighbors. This is a terrible thing, and we need to stop it. We need to have a voice heard. I mean, it’s important to go out and have your voice heard and know what you support. This administration is terrible,” said Giblin.
Another demonstrator, Megan Wolfe, said she joined the rally to call for unity and to speak out against what she believes is excessive and harmful enforcement by ICE.
“I’m here because I believe that the citizens of the United States should work together, and that our government should not be divisive, but should be supportive, and that there are many people who are being injured and attacked by an enforcement agency, ICE. Which is way beyond what would be reasonable in police enforcement,” said Wolfe.
Protests against ICE are continuing to unfold nationwide in the wake of Renee Good’s death.