State Representative Derrick Jackson and State Senator Kenya Wicks have expressed strong disapproval of recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in Fayette and Clayton counties, as well as other regions in Georgia. They argue that ICE’s actions are overstepping its intended role.
Rep. Jackson stated, “We firmly believe that ICE is negatively exceeding its role and responsibilities. They have gone well-beyond looking for criminals to the point that they are intimidating and harassing law-abiding citizens without probable cause or any form of suspicion. These actions are not creating a safe environment for our constituents – in fact, they are doing quite the opposite.”
Sen. Wicks shared her concerns, stating, “We are completely appalled by the recent ICE raids conducted in our districts and other parts of Georgia. No citizen in Georgia should live in a state of fear. The notion that ICE would demand ‘show me your papers’ from Georgians in 2025 is an affront to our values and an overreach of authority.”
Additionally, Rep. Jackson addressed rumors about deploying the National Guard: “Lastly, we do not need the National Guard to be activated in Georgia,” he said. “We have not reached a threshold that requires the involvement of the National Guard, and any suggestion otherwise is irresponsible and unnecessary.”
Both legislators call for ICE to allow local law enforcement to handle public safety issues independently. Sen. Wicks emphasized this point by saying, “Our ask is for ICE to let local law enforcement officers do their job managing public safety. These aggressive tactics are counterproductive and erode the trust essential for community well-being.”
Rep. Jackson and Sen. Wicks urge an immediate review of these practices by ICE, advocating for approaches that respect civil liberties while maintaining dignity for all residents of Georgia.
