During the recent Houston City Council meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding the Houston Police Department's (HPD) collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The discussions highlighted the fear and mistrust this partnership has instilled in immigrant communities, with many residents calling for an end to such cooperation.

Lisette Prestwich, a local advocate, urged the council to revise police department general orders to ensure that HPD does not collaborate with ICE. She emphasized the need for clear policies that would protect residents from deportation during routine police encounters. Prestwich's testimony resonated with many, as she described the fear that grips families who worry that a simple traffic stop could lead to separation from loved ones.

Derek Moore, a resident and small business owner, shared his personal struggles, including the impact of the pandemic on his family. He expressed a desire for city officials to engage more deeply with the community and address the pressing issues of housing and support for vulnerable residents.

Several speakers echoed Prestwich's sentiments, including Linda Harrod and Adam Loreno Dowie, who highlighted the detrimental effects of HPD's collaboration with ICE on public safety. Harrod pointed out that when police act as immigration agents, it discourages victims from reporting crimes, leading to a culture of fear rather than safety. Dowie called for a shift in focus towards fostering a welcoming environment for all residents, regardless of their immigration status.

The meeting also featured testimonies from educators like Ricardo Martinez and Tuan Nguyen, who described the anxiety their students experience due to the threat of deportation. They urged council members to recognize the real-life consequences of HPD's actions and to take steps to protect immigrant families.

Community members proposed various solutions, including making minor traffic violations a secondary offense to reduce unnecessary interactions with law enforcement that could lead to deportations. They also called for the city to redirect resources away from ICE collaboration towards legal support for immigrants.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community's call for change was unified and passionate. Residents are demanding that their city leaders prioritize the safety and well-being of all Houstonians, advocating for policies that reflect the city's diverse and inclusive values. The council's response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of public safety and community trust in Houston.