Indian-origin mayor tells ICE to 'go home,' vows support for immigrants
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indian-origin Mayor Swarnjit Singh of Norwich, Connecticut, declared U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unwelcome in his city.
- Singh affirmed his unwavering support for the immigrant community, stating they should not fear deportation based on their status.
- The mayor's stance drew criticism on social media, with some commenters suggesting he should be deported, and he subsequently received hate crime threats.
Norwich, Connecticut Mayor Swarnjit Singh, an Indian-origin Sikh, has publicly declared U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unwelcome in his city. In a strong statement, Singh asserted that no resident should fear for their safety or ability to work or attend school due to their immigration status.
"I have always and will always support the immigrant community of Norwich," Singh stated, emphasizing that the local police adhere to the CT Trust Act and do not assist ICE in enforcement actions based on immigration status. He added that he had consulted with community leaders and state officials to reaffirm the city's commitment to resident safety and support.
I have always and will always support the immigrant community of Norwich.
Singh directly echoed Governor Lamont's sentiment, stating, "ICE, go home. You are not welcomed here." His firm stance, however, ignited backlash on social media. Critics questioned his position, with some users suggesting that as a foreign-born individual, he should be deported instead of hindering federal agents. Singh recently faced threats targeting him and his family, which police are investigating as a hate crime.
ICE, go home. You are not welcomed here
Originally published by Times of India in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.