Across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, a deeply disturbing pattern is unfolding — one that echoes the violent immigration enforcement actions taking place in Los Angeles. Just days ago, ICE agents made arrests after an elementary school graduation. What should have been a joyful moment for children and families instead became a traumatic display of fear and disruption.
Even more disturbing is that this is not an isolated incident. A Massachusetts high schooler was detained after appearing in court. A 9-year-old child from California is now in deportation proceedings. And here, in our own neighborhoods, youth who should be learning, playing and growing are instead bracing for the next knock on the door.
As the executive director of a youth-led and youth-serving organization, I see firsthand the pain and fear inflicted on young people simply for existing in the only home they’ve ever known. These ICE raids, carried out without due process and driven by politically motivated quotas, violate the most basic standards of dignity and justice…