NJEA’s officers, President Steve Beatty, Vice President Petal Robertson and Secretary-Treasurer Tina Dare, released this statement following news of ICE raids in New Jersey that resulted in the arrest and detention of a Morristown High School student:
“We stand in solidarity with the Morristown community, particularly our members and students in the Morristown public schools. We share their outrage over the unannounced ICE raid on Jan. 11 that resulted in the arrest of a Morristown High School senior who was taken into custody while doing laundry.
“We are deeply disturbed that this talented and hardworking student has been detained by the federal government despite following the legal process and attending scheduled immigration hearings. This cruel arrest sends a chilling message to all students and families that our streets are not safe because of the presence of unaccountable federal agents. It creates fear and insecurity in our schools and communities. Yesterday’s action undermines trust in government and in due process while inflicting immeasurable personal harm on a young person striving to do everything right. We call on ICE to release this student immediately.
“Terrorizing raids like this tear at the social fabric of our schools and communities, and they must stop. We also call on Gov. Murphy and Gov.-elect Sherrill, legislative leaders, and local officials to act swiftly and decisively to protect our students, our schools and our communities from such attacks.
“Along with our fellow NJEA members, we continue to support every student, regardless of immigration status. We will not tolerate tactics that target children, terrorize communities and endanger our democracy.”