In a tense and emotionally charged meeting at Dallas City Hall, community members voiced their deep concerns over the Dallas Police Department's (DPD) collaboration with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The atmosphere was thick with urgency as speakers shared personal stories of trauma and injustice, calling for immediate reforms to protect vulnerable populations in the city.

One poignant moment came from a speaker who recounted the distress of a family member deemed an "incapacitated elder," highlighting the emotional toll of bureaucratic decisions that left loved ones feeling abandoned. This sentiment resonated throughout the meeting, as many speakers expressed fears that current policies could lead to further harm within their communities.

Survivors of human trafficking also took the floor, detailing their harrowing experiences with law enforcement. One survivor, who identified herself as Narayan Williams, described how the misconduct of officers in the human trafficking unit exacerbated her trauma, raising questions about the integrity of police practices. She implored the board to consider whether policies should prioritize the well-being of survivors over procedural formalities.

The issue of ICE's presence in Dallas was a central theme, with multiple speakers demanding transparency and accountability from the DPD regarding its interactions with federal immigration authorities. Dr. Danielle Lemmy passionately urged the board to reject any cooperation with ICE, drawing historical parallels to the injustices faced by marginalized communities. Her call for a written policy prohibiting voluntary cooperation without a judicial warrant echoed the sentiments of many who spoke that evening.

Kathy Cochran, another community member, criticized the DPD for failing to uphold the city’s stated values of empathy and equity, citing a recent incident where ICE agents violently detained an individual in a courthouse. She argued that such actions erode trust in law enforcement and make the city less safe for everyone.

As the meeting progressed, the demand for clear policies became increasingly urgent. Speakers like Sam Williams and Ted Ellis called for immediate notification of families when loved ones are detained by ICE, and for a complete ban on sharing non-public information without legal compulsion. They emphasized that the current lack of transparency fosters fear within the community, deterring individuals from seeking help from police.

The meeting concluded with a collective call for action, urging the board to implement reforms that would ensure the DPD serves as a protector of all Dallas residents, rather than an extension of federal immigration enforcement. The voices of the community echoed a powerful message: safety and trust must be restored, and the city must stand firm against practices that threaten the dignity and rights of its most vulnerable citizens.