Related Article: Morrisey ramps up immigration enforcement in WV; cops can question immigration status - wvgazettemail.com - Friday, August 15, 2025, 5:43:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Target: Governor Patrick Morrisey, West Virginia State Legislature, and local law enforcement agencies
Goal: We call on Governor Morrisey and state officials to immediately halt participation in ICE's 287(g) program and protect the civil rights of all West Virginians.
The recent decision by Governor Morrisey to expand West Virginia's cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through the 287(g) program threatens the rights and safety of immigrant communities across our state. Under this agreement, local police and the National Guard are authorized to question people about their immigration status during routine encounters, a policy that risks racial profiling, erodes trust in law enforcement, and undermines community safety.
West Virginia should not be complicit in policies that separate families, intimidate residents, and create fear in our neighborhoods. Instead, we must focus on building inclusive communities where everyone feels safe and protected, regardless of immigration status.
We urge state leaders to reject this harmful expansion of immigration enforcement and to prioritize the rights, dignity, and well-being of all West Virginians.