August 11, 2026
Monday’s federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) action in Keene has heightened concerns about safety of people in our community and the role of our City in federal law enforcement activities. Based on my inquiries, I don’t believe that ICE’s presence or actions had assistance from the Keene Police Department. I also know the penalties the state legislature has established to punish local governments that obstruct federal enforcement agencies. ICE’s enforcement actions raise an opportunity to describe the limits of local government in protecting people’s civil rights.
I understand the anxiety and fear that people in our community could be targeted solely on the basis of the color of their skin or their speech accents. This is abhorrent, but we have observed incidents doing just that in other cities. If this is occurring in Keene, I hope to hear from people affected. I have been in touch with our federal delegation and will keep them informed of ICE activities in our city.
I also know that rumors circulate fast in our community. I have tried to track those down to the extent I have been able, and I will continue to do so to minimize misinformation.
I have called the City Council to a workshop on Monday, August 17th at 6 PM in City Hall, 2nd floor Council Chambers, regarding federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Keene. The format and start time should provide sufficient opportunity for public comment.
