Denver politics heat up as Stacie Gilmore, a prominent councilwoman, rallies against ICE operations with a 600-strong volunteer force.
Key Takeaways
- Stacie Gilmore mobilizes over 600 volunteers to report ICE activity in Denver.
- Residents are encouraged to document and report ICE raids.
- Denver’s illegal immigration issue garners national attention amid alleged gang activities.
- Financial and societal impacts are points of contention between political factions.
Gilmore’s Campaign Against ICE
Denver Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore has become a leading figure in challenging ICE activities in the city, advocating for the rights of immigrants. Using an extensive volunteer network of more than 600 individuals via the Colorado Rapid Response Network, she pushes for immediate reporting of ICE actions. This initiative operates around the clock in both English and Spanish to accommodate the needs of the community.
Colorado City Councilmember Stacie Gilmore is asking people to report ICE's activities and real time locations so that illegal aliens can be warned. pic.twitter.com/AOM8JEqa8x
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) February 4, 2025
This robust response reflects ongoing Democratic efforts across the country to counter measures enforced during Trump’s presidency, which notably increased deportations. Gilmore’s direct tactics include encouraging residents to document ICE raids by taking photos or videos and noting details such as the time, date, and location to ensure accountability.
Community Resources and Resistance
Gilmore also actively shares resources on social media for immigrants, including legal aid and job training programs. These efforts underscore the clash with opposing views, primarily from Republican quarters that express concern about the economic and social repercussions of illegal immigration in Denver. The city’s administration, led by Mayor Mike Johnston, has committed substantial resources, with over $356 million allocated to migrant services, stirring debate about the impacts on public infrastructure.
The fight extends beyond city policy, reaching into national discourse. Denver has seen heightened attention after a video showcasing alleged Venezuelan gang members went viral, leading to contentious discussions about the future of immigration policy and public safety in the community.
Trump’s Influence and Colorado’s Response
President Donald Trump promised increased federal efforts to deal with gang-related crimes, particularly in light of incidents tied to the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang. His stance includes proposals such as ‘Operation Aurora,’ which aims to accelerate the removal of gang members. However, in Colorado, Gilmore’s approaches are part of broader political resistance observed among leaders who prioritize protecting immigrant communities.
This complex situation poses multiple challenges as Denver manages the influx of thousands of migrants since 2022, significantly affecting public services. As debates continue, Gilmore’s activism spotlights the tense interplay between local governance, community advocacy, and federal immigration policies.
Sources:
- Colorado councilwoman encourages people to ‘report’ ICE activity to help illegal immigrants avoid capture
- Colorado councilwoman encourages people to help illegal immigrants evade capture, ‘If you see activity by ICE…’
- Colorado councilwoman encourages people to ‘report’ ICE activity to help illegal immigrants avoid capture
