The intensified ICE operations throughout Nashville have cast dense clouds over the city’s local businesses. Owners and workers have expressed grave concerns, with many staff members choosing not to risk attending their shifts. Reports of potential ICE activities along Broadway over the last weekend have only stoked the fears, although not officially confirmed. As Yuri Cunza, a voice for the Hispanic community, stated to WKRN, “The whole conversation out there was it’s Hispanics who are undocumented. So it is uncomfortable to even go to a grocery store, and people kind of look at you.”
In response to the ICE and Tennessee Highway Patrol joint crackdown, community organization MusicCityMigraWatch has taken to the streets, their volunteers keeping vigilant eyes on unfolding events. Fernando, a volunteer with the group, revealed to NewsChannel 5 that “We’re using our own gas, our own vehicles. We’re putting miles on our vehicles. We’re all volunteering to keep our community safe,” alluding to a grassroots effort fueled by determination and a sense of duty amidst trying times.
Lending a more official tint to the narrative, the Department of Homeland Security released the names of five individuals apprehended in the ICE operations. In conjunction with the release, DHS also openly criticized Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, as reported by WSMV. DHS accused him of being a “pro-open borders politicians” and charged that he preferred to “protect illegal aliens than American citizens.” DHS underlined the 413% surge in assaults against officers, a figure that reflects a profound division and rising hostility…