News reports said 19 people were arrested for identity theft and other charges at Swift plants in Colorado, Nebraska and Iowa Tuesday and Wednesday, and that ICE had at least 40 arrest warrants for suspects in Greeley, Colo.; Cactus, Texas; Marshalltown, Iowa; and Worthington, Minn.
These communities were the site of massive workplace sweeps that resulted in more than 1,200 people being detained last December.
The UFCW, which represents workers at the plants, said "It does not appear that ICE engaged in the same level of intimidation and overkill as they did in its raids last December at six Swift plants. To the extent this is the case, the UFCW supports law enforcement efforts that abide by the law and respect the rights of workers."
But, the union added, "Worksite law enforcement around identity and immigration issues is a symptom of a failed immigration system, and is no substitute for comprehensive reform."
The union called on Congress "to demonstrate the necessary leadership and persistence to fix our broken system." The issue of migration cannot be addressed without examining the factors causing it, the union said.
"Our lawmakers must choose to revise harmful policies on trade, to craft meaningful international labor standards, and to work with unions, corporations, and community organizations around the globe to promote better jobs, living standards, and stable communities everywhere, otherwise the pressure for illegal immigration will persist."
Read more about the UFCW's position on immigration at www.ufcw.org/issues/immigration/
View the Workday Minnesota special section on the Worthington raid and immigration.
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