Activists Condemn Willow Run ICE Flights at Airport Authority Meeting

Activists have voiced strong opposition at a recent Wayne County Airport Authority meeting regarding flights operating from Willow Run Airport for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Approximately 20 individuals braved the snowy conditions to attend the meeting and call for an end to the airport’s collaboration with ICE.

Call to End Collaboration with ICE

Among the attendees were several activists wearing T-shirts emblazoned with messages such as “ICE out now.” Sailor Mayes, one of the concerned citizens, expressed her distress about the airport’s involvement. “I want them to stop the collaboration. They don’t have to let those flights go in and out,” she stated.

Flight Operations and Destinations

According to flight tracking data from Human Rights First, charter flights transporting detained immigrants have left Willow Run three times a week. These flights primarily head to Harlingen, Texas, and Alexandria, Louisiana, both significant deportation hubs operated by ICE.

Authority’s Response

Chad Newton, the airport authority’s CEO, addressed the protest during the meeting, asserting that the authority does not dictate flight operations. “Our response remains — the Wayne County Airport Authority does not have any involvement in the agreements between airlines and our partners, including federal agencies,” he remarked. This response did not satisfy many activists, who accused the board of tacitly supporting the deportation agenda.

Legal Concerns and Community Support

George B. Washington, a Detroit immigration attorney, criticized the board for indirectly contributing to ICE’s operations. He emphasized that the initial framework for these flights was established by prior administration policies. Former Detroit teachers union president Steve Conn also condemned the airport’s involvement, declaring his commitment to fight against the exploitation of the facility for such purposes.

• Activists’ Concerns: Criticism aimed at the board for facilitating ICE flights.
• Key Airports: Willow Run Airport and its role in deportation flights.
• Legal Implications: Potential lawsuits against the airport authority due to ICE’s actions.

Board Members’ Reactions

Marvin Beatty, a board member known for his advocacy for social justice, expressed his empathy toward the protesters. He stated, “To watch people be treated this way is disrespectful, and it’s wrong.” Meanwhile, as discussions continue, some members have expressed concerns about possible legal repercussions for the airport’s involvement with ICE.

Future Considerations

The Wayne County Airport Authority board meeting on Wednesday was the first of the year. The board, which oversees multiple Detroit airports, is appointed by the Wayne County executive, the governor, and the Wayne County Commission, with terms ranging from two to eight years. The chair, Dennis Archer, Jr., was absent, and Michael Ajami was elected as the new chair during this meeting.

As calls to halt ICE flights grow louder, the board faces increasing pressure from citizens and legal experts alike regarding their role in the deportation process.