congress I want to begin by thanking you for your vocal opposition to the recent detentions and deportations carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Your leadership and willingness to speak out give me hope in a moment that feels increasingly alarming and disheartening.
I am writing not only to express my support, but also to urge you to take further action. As a constituent, I am watching closely. I am deeply troubled by the recent detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful permanent resident, reportedly imprisoned for nothing more than exercising his First Amendment right to protest. I am equally disturbed by the deportation of Rasha Alawieh, a respected kidney transplant specialist who held a valid U.S. visa and had previously lived and worked in Rhode Island. And now, we are seeing reports of other foreign nationals—including Canadians, Germans, and British citizens—being detained for weeks at a time, despite legal entry or attempts to enter legally.
These are not isolated incidents. They are part of a deeply troubling pattern in which ICE appears to be acting with impunity, detaining individuals without clear cause, transparency, or due process. It is chilling to imagine that this could happen in a country that claims to uphold the rule of law and civil liberties. And it raises a terrifying question: where does this end? Will American citizens be next? How might other nations begin to treat Americans traveling abroad in response?
I am terrified—and I am not alone.
It is imperative that Congress do more than express concern. Signing letters or issuing statements is not enough. Concrete, legislative action is needed to rein in the unchecked power of ICE. I implore you to work with your colleagues to establish oversight mechanisms, demand accountability, and protect the rights of both citizens and legal residents.
Please continue to raise your voice. Please continue to fight. Know that you have the support of constituents like me who are watching, standing with you, and praying for meaningful change.
First sent on March 21 by Resistance is Imperative
