In times of uncertainty, we are con nuestra gente

A reflection letter from Dr. Arturo Aceves González, a dedicated member of the Steering Committee of the Latino Economic Development Council regarding the ICE raids held in Omaha today.

“As an immigrant, I’ve often chosen to keep a low profile. I try to avoid voicing my political opinions about what’s happening around us. But today, I cannot stay silent.

Though I am now a U.S. citizen, I live with a deep and persistent fear, fear for the children who will experience the sudden, traumatic absence of their parents; fear that some hearts will remain untouched even as entire families are torn apart.

And no, I do not agree with the narrative being pushed. The facts speak for themselves. These raids are not targeting criminals; they are targeting workers. Otherwise, why raid meatpacking plants, restaurants, construction sites, and other workplaces where people labor tirelessly to keep our economy moving?

Yes, I could understand efforts to remove individuals convicted of violent crimes who truly pose a threat to public safety. But that’s not what’s happening. What we are witnessing is the targeting of people simply because of the color of their skin, their accent, or the language they speak.

What I saw today shook me, videos being shared, voices trembling, signs held high for those who no longer feel safe to speak. I stood among others to show up for families who have worked hard, saved enough to make a life here, and helped build this city, once a place they proudly called home.

My heart aches for the children who waved goodbye to their parents, holding onto a promise of return that may never be fulfilled.

As a trained physician, I can tell you with confidence: the mental health toll on these families, especially the children, is profound. The trauma inflicted will not go away easily. It will take years of healing, and even then, scars will remain.

But as a human being, I must say this plainly: there is no excuse for the dehumanization of our community members. Dignity and respect are not privileges reserved for a few, they are rights that should be upheld for all, regardless of immigration status.

To those who were detained today, and to the families left waiting and grieving, you are not alone. My heart and my prayers are with you. And when history looks back, may it remember not just the injustice, but the courage of a community that refused to be silent.”

With deepest solidarity,

Dr. Arturo Aceves González