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Congressman Pat Ryan has launched a petition to oppose a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Chester. The plan involves converting a former warehouse into a detention center as part of ICE's initiative to house 80,000 immigrants nationwide. Ryan, along with local leaders, was not informed about the proposal, prompting immediate action against it.
Ryan's campaign comes after a recent incident involving ICE in Minnesota and concerns about the agency's transparency. He described the plan as "shameful" and "un-American," urging the Hudson Valley community to reject the proposal. "Our community stands for justice, accountability, and humanity," Ryan stated.
Local officials, including Chester Town Supervisor Brandon Holdridge and Orange County Legislature Chairwoman Laurie Tautel, have also voiced their opposition. Tautel emphasized the need for policies that protect families and build trust within the community. Genesis Ramos, a county legislator, highlighted the fear and economic harm inflicted on immigrant families due to such proposals.
The Ulster Immigrant Defense Network Executive Director Victor Cueva expressed concerns over reported inhumane conditions in detention centers, advocating against further dehumanization of community members.
The petition aims to gather community support and demonstrate to Washington that the Hudson Valley will not accept the establishment of the ICE facility. Ryan plans to use the petition as leverage to oppose the facility's construction and promote a community that values dignity and respect for all residents.