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The killing of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis is shocking, but she is not the first person killed by ICE. We don’t know the fate of thousands ICE has grabbed off streets and imprisoned or deported.
Good was immediately labeled a “domestic terrorist” by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, President Donald Trump, and Vice President JD Vance before any lawful investigation. I believe smearing as a terrorist a U.S. citizen attempting to protect her neighbors aims to instill fear in those opposing Trump’s cruel and unconstitutional policies.
I’ve been heartened by thousands joining together in Maine and nationally calling for justice and democratic rule of law. After the killing of Good, Chicago residents joined a vigil sharing anger, sadness, and grief. Kelly Hayes, asked to share her moving words in an essay, “The Cost of Staying Human,” reminded participants, “There is power in grief because grief draws us together when enemies would tear us apart.”
I’m encouraged by the courageous history of the civil rights movement in the face of lawless brutality by those opposing voting rights, integration, and racial justice. Martin Luther King Jr. urged active nonviolence and coming together as the Beloved Community.
Today, I find support in knowing my small efforts are part of the growing nationwide nonviolent Beloved Community, opposing violence used to maintain wealth and power of the 1 percent and calling for peace, equality, and justice.
Ilze Petersons
Orono