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There’s been yet another fatal ICE shooting and this time ICE’s paramilitary violence has stolen a life right here in Maine. As our grief-stricken neighbors face the dread of an occupying force killing someone in our own backyard, it’s imperative that Mainers shine a magnified beam of light on the fact that Sen. Susan Collins voted to increase ICE’s funding by $70 billion.
It’s worth remembering that Collins voted for this titanic budget increase after ICE surged in Maine earlier this year during its vile “Operation Catch of the Day.” Thanks in large part to the Bangor Daily News, there was detailed reporting on ICE’s abductions and the devastating local impact of Mainers trying to go about their everyday activities while under ICE’s boot.
Personally, I can’t comprehend anyone living through that cruelty-ridden time and making the choice to strengthen ICE, yet Collins used her power to give ICE more power.
Now, the echo of Collins championing ICE blends with the pain of our bereaved community. May we remember this feeling come Election Day in November. Until then, I stand with my neighbors as we say, “Abolish ICE.” That’s a choice we can all make.
Aaron Bergeron
Portland