Dear Friends and Neighbors,
What we are witnessing across this country right now is deeply alarming. The federal government is giving license to ICE, whose agents are covered by face masks to hide their identities, to act with impunity. This is not public safety. This is terror, carried out in our streets under the guise of legal immigration enforcement.
In Minneapolis, Alex Pretti, a VA ICU nurse, was killed after stepping in to help a woman who had been shoved to the ground by an ICE agent. Mr. Pretti is not the first, nor likely, if things continue unchecked, the last. ICE has killed nine people so far in 2026. Below are their names:
- Alex Pretti
- Renee Good
- Keith Porter
- Heber Sanchaz Dominguez
- Victor Manuel Diaz
- Parady La
- Luis Beltran Yanez-Cruz
- Luis Gustavo Nunez Caceres
- Geraldo Lunas Campos
Today the Maryland House and Senate both passed legislation to rein in ICE’s reach into our communities by banning 287(g) agreements, which deputize local law enforcement officers to act as federal immigration agents. Separate legislation which would prohibit law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings while on duty is also making its way through both chambers. Together, these bills reflect a coordinated, bicameral effort and underscore a growing consensus to increase transparency, accountability, and community trust.
In addition to supporting these legislative reforms, I believe it is our responsibility to ensure that Marylanders are informed, prepared, and safe. I have put together a comprehensive resource guide outlining an individual’s rights if you, or someone you know is stopped by ICE; where people are being detained; and immigration support resources available in Montgomery County and across Maryland. You can find that guide on my website HERE.
I encourage you to take the time to learn your rights and to share this information with your neighbors, friends, and loved ones. In moments like this, community is our greatest protection. Standing up for what is right means refusing to look away, caring for one another, and insisting that accountability apply to everyone, without exception.
As always, if you have thoughts or questions, you can reach me at tazeen@tazeenformaryland.com. Thank you for staying informed and engaged.
With heart and purpose,
Tazeen Ahmad
Candidate for Delegate
MD District 16
tazeen@tazeenformaryland.com
Leading with Heart, Delivering with Purpose
