National Nurses United Calls for Abolishing ICE Amid Minnesota Operations

National Nurses United Criticizes Federal Immigration Actions in Minnesota

National Nurses United, the largest union of registered nurses in the United States, has issued a statement addressing the recent announcement by the Trump administration to phase out immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota. The union's response highlights the solidarity and resilience demonstrated by Minnesotans in the face of federal actions.

According to the statement, "Union nurses are beyond proud of the people of Minnesota for refusing to be divided, under the harshest of conditions, for more than two months under siege by our own federal government." The union commends the courage of local residents and the advocacy efforts of nurses nationwide in demanding justice for the killing of Alex Pretti, RN, a fellow union nurse.

The union further argues that the withdrawal of ICE from Minnesota is insufficient, stating, "If ICE completely left Minnesota tomorrow, it wouldn’t be soon enough." They emphasize that lasting harm has already been inflicted and call for the complete abolition of ICE. The statement criticizes the administration for reallocating nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and Medicare to fund ICE and related agencies, describing it as a significant but less visible tragedy for working people.

Nurses also raise concerns about the agency's conduct, citing incidents including the breaking of a Minnesota resident’s skull and a multi-car accident and injuries during a high-speed chase. The union highlights the inhumane conditions under which immigrants, including children, have been detained, referencing reports of inadequate food and healthcare.

The statement also discusses the impact of 'toxic stress' on children and families exposed to ICE violence, noting that such stress can lead to long-term health issues like depression, diabetes, and heart disease. The union stresses the need for no further funding for ICE and calls for the removal of ICE's $140 billion slush fund as laid out in H.R.1.

National Nurses United maintains that reforms are insufficient and reiterates its demand for the abolition of ICE, arguing that the agency's mission has not been focused on community safety since its creation over two decades ago. The union's statement concludes with a call to action: "Abolish ICE now."

National Nurses United represents over 225,000 registered nurses nationwide, with affiliates including the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee, DC Nurses Association, Michigan Nurses Association, Minnesota Nurses Association, and New York State Nurses Association.