Community Leaders denounce ICE raids in South Nashville as terrorizing families

In a recent special meeting of the Metro Council Committee on Public Health and Safety in Nashville, community members voiced strong opposition to what they described as state-sanctioned racial profiling and the misuse of law enforcement under the guise of public safety. The meeting, held on May 8, 2025, highlighted growing concerns over recent operations conducted by the Tennessee Highway Patrol in collaboration with federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and ICE, which have disproportionately targeted immigrant communities in South Nashville.

Speakers at the meeting expressed alarm over the impact of these operations on local residents, particularly those from Hispanic backgrounds. One speaker emphasized that the actions taken by law enforcement are not about ensuring safety but rather instilling fear within the community. They described how individuals were stopped and interrogated in their neighborhoods, leading to a climate of terror that has left families anxious about their safety and the potential separation from loved ones.

Community advocates criticized the lack of transparency from local government officials regarding these operations. They raised questions about what the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) knew about the raids and when they were informed. The fear among residents is palpable, with parents expressing concerns about the safety of their children and the potential for family separations due to these enforcement actions.

Another speaker recounted firsthand experiences of witnessing ICE agents detaining individuals in public spaces, further illustrating the pervasive atmosphere of fear. The testimonies shared during the meeting underscored a broader call for accountability and a demand for the city council and the mayor to take a stand against racial profiling and to implement policies that protect immigrant families.

As the meeting concluded, community members urged local leaders to commit to concrete actions that would ensure the safety and rights of all residents, regardless of their immigration status. The discussions reflect a critical moment for Nashville, as residents seek clarity and assurance from their elected officials in the face of escalating tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety.