ICE Detains Parents in Ypsilanti, Prompting Community Concerns
In Washtenaw County, a recent operation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) resulted in the detention of several parents associated with Ypsilanti Community Schools. This event has sparked distress among community members and prompted responses from local officials.
Ypsilanti Public Schools Superintendent Alena Zachery-Ross expressed deep concern over the incident in a letter to local leaders. “There are no words to fully capture the pain, fear and disruption this causes for our scholars and their loved ones,” she noted. The superintendent described the detentions as a threat to the community’s sense of safety.
According to Alyshia Dyer, the Washtenaw County Sheriff, ICE conducted four separate actions on Tuesday afternoon, with one arrest reportedly occurring at a school bus stop. While ICE agents avoided school grounds, the proximity of their activities to educational settings remains a concern.
Dyer emphasized the fear that ICE actions generate within the community, particularly among immigrant families. “Anytime ICE does anything in the county, it incites more fear,” she said, highlighting the ongoing anxiety since the onset of increased immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
In response to these events, Zachery-Ross reassured families that Ypsilanti Community Schools are a sanctuary and will not cooperate with ICE unless legally obligated. The district has pledged not to allow ICE access to school premises without a valid warrant.
Dyer corroborated that the county has no formal collaboration with ICE, stressing the importance of community trust in local law enforcement. She noted that even immigrants with legal status might hesitate to seek help due to fear of repercussions.
Although ICE was approached for comments, they have yet to respond. Meanwhile, Dyer has voiced her support for ICE reforms, advocating for legislation that would limit ICE activities in sensitive locations and restrict the use of face-covering masks by federal agents.
The school district is actively working with the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office to keep schools secure. Zachery-Ross advised families to:
- Travel to school in groups or by carpooling
- Familiarize themselves with “Know your Rights” materials
- Ensure student emergency contact details and “Care Plans” are current
- Utilize resources from the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center
Zachery-Ross’s letter concluded with a message of solidarity: “In times of fear, we respond with compassion,” she said. “In times of uncertainty, we respond with unity. We will not let this incident diminish our commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive home for every scholar.”
She further assured, “We are here for you. We will continue to advocate for your safety, your dignity, and your right to an education free from fear.”
