On Thursday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out raids at various construction sites across Florida, marking the start of a new crackdown on undocumented workers. This move has incited fear and outrage among migrant communities and activists.
Thomas Kennedy, an activist with the Florida Immigrant Coalition, criticized the operations through social media, describing the presence of agents dressed in military gear as reminiscent of a "war zone." "It's happening right now in Tallahassee. A raid targeting people literally building our homes. ICE agents, dressed as if going to war," Kennedy shared on Instagram and Bluesky.
These actions follow earlier raids in Wildwood, where over 24 undocumented immigrants were apprehended at construction sites and landscaping businesses. The detainees, hailing from Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, included individuals who had previously been deported.
Reports indicate that the operations were executed in collaboration with several federal and state agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), HSI Tampa, ERO Miami, and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
Community Uproar and Economic Impact
The raids have sparked a flood of complaints on social media, where users and activists decry the targeting of individuals whose sole activity is working in essential sectors like construction and public space maintenance. "How harsh, taking them away while they're just working," commented user mariluz1909 in response to a video posted by activist Carlos Eduardo Espina, who has documented these operations across the state.
These operations come amid a tightening of immigration policies in Florida, driven by Governor Ron DeSantis. This week, he proposed allowing the National Guard to act as judicial authorities in immigration processes and empowering the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) to conduct raids independently.
In South Florida, where the service and tourism industries heavily rely on Hispanic labor, the raids have led to a shortage of workers and widespread fear. Many employees have chosen to stay home to avoid potential arrest.
Experts warn that such measures directly impact local businesses, increase job insecurity, and undermine the stability of entire communities.
Key Questions About ICE Raids in Florida
What triggered the recent ICE raids in Florida?
The recent ICE raids are part of a new initiative to crack down on undocumented workers in Florida, aimed at enforcing immigration laws more stringently.
How have the raids affected local communities?
The raids have instilled fear among migrant communities, caused a shortage of workers in essential sectors, and disrupted local businesses by increasing job insecurity.
Who collaborated with ICE in these operations?
ICE conducted these raids in cooperation with multiple federal and state agencies, including the DHS, HSI Tampa, ERO Miami, and FLHSMV.