Hispanic Federation Condemns Federal Takeover of Washington D.C., Urges Elected Officials to Fight Back
Washington, D.C. – Hispanic Federation has become increasingly alarmed by the deployment of the National Guard and other federal agents in Washington, D.C. as well as by the collaboration between the Metropolitan Police and ICE. Below is a statement from Jessica Orozco Guttlein, Co-Acting President of Hispanic Federation, in response to this week’s deployment:
“While we recognize that President Trump has the legal authority to deploy the National Guard in our nation’s capital, this week has been a stark reminder that what is lawful is not always just – especially when lawful actions are taken under false pretenses. Data and facts show that President Trump’s reasoning for deployment, a supposed increase in crime, is rooted in falsehoods and misinformation
What is clear is that the federal government is wielding its power not to protect District residents, but to advance a political narrative that sows fear and division. Using a manufactured crisis in order to deploy the National Guard undermines public trust in democratic norms and diverts resources from the pressing challenges faced by our communities. The agreement of collaboration between ICE and the Metropolitan Police, along with the subsequent takeover of the D.C. police force by the federal government, are a clear indicator that these actions are not centering the well-being of District residents.
We must hold our leaders to a higher standard of doing what is just, of leading with our values. That is why we call on D.C. elected officials, both local representatives and federal representatives, to use every legal tool they have at their disposal to protect District residents from potential rights violations.”
Click here for our statement in Spanish
About Hispanic Federation
Hispanic Federation (HF) is a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, founded in 1990, committed to empowering and advancing the Hispanic community, with a focus on low-income, marginalized and immigrant Latine. With programs in 43 states and territories HF’s focus areas include immigration, economic empowerment, civic engagement, disaster relief, philanthropy, education, health, and the environment. HF also maintains ongoing public education campaigns and meets the organizational development needs of its member agencies through grant-making and capacity-building assistance.
