State And Local Leaders Attend Newton Anti-ICE Protest

NEWTON, MA — Mayor Marc Laredo and Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan headlined attendees of a peaceful protest this past weekend in honor of the woman who was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer this week in Minnesota.

Renee Nicole Good, 37, was reportedly partially blocking a street where ICE operations were being conducted. ICE agents approached her vehicle and attempted to open the driver’s side door. Good then put the car in reverse then forward to reportedly turn and drive away from the officers, however Officer Jonathan Ross fired three shots through the windshield, one of which struck Good in the head.

Nearly 600 people gathered at the Newton Centre Green on Saturday, Jan. 10 to show their opposition to the actions of ICE.

“I want to thank those who exercised their First Amendment rights in a respectful manner, reminding us that civic engagement and open dialogue are vital to a civil and just society,” Laredo said. “I believe in democracy and democratic values. I believe in a nation where the Statue of Liberty stands as a welcoming beacon for people seeking freedom in our beloved country. I believe in America, the America that Bruce Springsteen sings about, the ‘Land of Hope and Dreams.’”

Laredo also gave a speech to his constituents at the event. He emphasized that Newton police and law enforcement are committed to public safety first, in contrast to what he feels is the ideology of ICE.

“I was proud to be with Mayor Laredo and so many other leaders in Newton at this important protest this past weekend,” Ryan said in a statement. “We must be tireless in standing up for the rule of law.”

Newton has a “Welcoming City” ordinance, which is similar to that of a sanctuary city. It prevents Newton police from assisting ICE in arresting anyone unless an investigation has shown that the person is under investigation for terrorism, has been convicted of a major felony, or has an outstanding warrant.

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