Detroit Council member backs state ban on ICE activity

February 2, 2026

Detroit City Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero testified before a Michigan state committee supporting three bills designed to restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations throughout the state. The proposed legislation would prevent ICE agents from wearing masks, ban enforcement activities in schools and houses of worship, and stop state agencies from sharing personal information with immigration officials. Santiago-Romero reported that Detroit's immigrant communities are experiencing severe impacts, including reduced school attendance and families avoiding essential activities due to fear of deportation.

Who is affected

Detroit immigrant communities and families
Detroiters (residents of Detroit generally)
Students (experiencing declined school attendance)
Small business owners in Detroit
Alex Pretti (Minneapolis man fatally shot by ICE agents)
ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents
Detroit Law Department
Local police departments
State senators representing Detroit

What action is being taken

Santiago-Romero is testifying in support of Senate Bills 508, 509, and 510
Santiago-Romero is having conversations with Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield about the city's legal authority to protect immigrant communities
At-Large Council Member Mary Waters is seeking an ordinance to ban law enforcement from wearing masks
ICE agents are conducting enforcement operations in Detroit and other cities

Why it matters

This legislation matters because it addresses fundamental tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local community safety. The fear generated by ICE operations is causing Detroit residents to avoid essential services like schools, medical care, and even police protection, which undermines public safety for everyone. The inability of residents to identify law enforcement officers due to mask-wearing erodes trust and accountability, making it harder for communities to distinguish between legitimate authorities and potential threats. The issue also raises important questions about state versus federal authority and how local jurisdictions can protect vulnerable populations while maintaining public order.

What's next

The committee will consider Senate Bills 508, 509, and 510
At-Large Council Member Mary Waters will pursue an ordinance banning masked law enforcement
Santiago-Romero will continue conversations with Mayor Sheffield about Detroit's legal authority regarding immigrant protection

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com