RMIAN Statement on Shooting outside Aurora immigration detention facility

RMIAN is deeply disturbed by the shooting that occurred outside the Aurora immigration detention facility last night during a community protest. We are relieved that the injured protester is expected to survive, and our thoughts are with them as they recover.

Everyone has the fundamental and constitutional right to peacefully protest and to speak out against injustice without fear of violence. We unequivocally condemn this shooting and any act of violence that threatens the safety of those exercising their constitutional rights. This violence serves to intimidate and instill fear in our communities, in those held in the facility, and in those speaking up for immigrant rights. 

For years, community members have gathered outside the Aurora immigration detention facility to peacefully bear witness to the harms of immigration detention and to advocate for the dignity and rights of those inside. Their voices are an essential part of our democracy.

As the investigation moves forward, we urge a full, transparent, and independent review of this incident. Violence has no place in our communities, and those responsible must be held accountable.

RMIAN remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting the rights of immigrants, advocating for an end to the expansion of immigration detention, and supporting the right of community members to peacefully demand a more just and humane immigration system.