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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0125.039 2024-2026From: Janille Casabar Sent: Tuesday, April 1, 2025 8:16 AM To: Council Testimony Cc: Alameda, Christian (Kimo); Inaba, Holeka; Onishi, Dennis; Kimball, Heather; Kagiwada, Jennifer; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Kanealii- Kleinfelder, Matt; Hustace, James Subject: Testimony in Opposition to Resolution 74-25 My name is Janille Casabar, and I am writing in strong opposition to Resolution 74 - 25: ICE MOU because it will negatively impact our Hawai'i community. I am worried that there will be greater fear and mistrust of law enforcement. I have family members who work in law enforcement, and I am concerned that their time and resources will be diverted from their current duties if the Police and ICE work together. I am also concerned about the misuse of our tax dollars to meet a quota for the number of arrests or deportations. My worry is that collaboration between the Police and ICE might discourage victims and witnesses from cooperating with the police in other cases for fear of being reported to ICE. I already had a student who expressed to me that he was scared to come to school, fearing they might see a student whose parent works for law enforcement being dropped off in a marked police vehicle. If the Police and ICE work together, that fear among students will increase because of what they see and hear. This will inflict greater trauma on all our children, whether they are US citizens or undocumented. Allowing the Hawai'i Police Department to engage in immigration enforcement undermines public safety. This resolution does not protect our community; instead, it fosters division and distrust. I strongly urge the committee to oppose Resolution 74-25 and protect the integrity of our local law enforcement. Mahalo for your time and consideration. s Sincerely, Janille Casabar