URGENT UPDATE: Federal law enforcement is intensifying its immigration enforcement efforts in Durango, Colorado, with alarming reports emerging from the community. Compañeros: Four Corners Immigrant Resource Center warns that local immigrants are being increasingly targeted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, raising serious concerns for the safety and stability of immigrant families.
In recent weeks, Compañeros has documented numerous accounts from community members indicating heightened ICE activity. Volunteers from the Colorado Rapid Response Network have also faced intimidation, with reports of harassment at their workplaces. “Employers are telling us that ICE is targeting their sites and going after people with no criminal records – good, hardworking people who have been here for a long time,” said Enrique Orozco-Perez, co-executive director of Compañeros.
Reports suggest that ICE is not only focusing on undocumented workers but also pressuring employers. Some business owners have claimed they were advised to avoid hiring workers from Mexico, opting instead for U.S. citizens. This tactic threatens the livelihoods of many in the community, with Orozco-Perez emphasizing, “The more ICE disrupts life in this town, the more that will disrupt the rest of the economy.”
The implications of this enforcement surge extend beyond the immigrant community. Orozco-Perez highlighted concerns for the local economy, stating, “We’re talking about tourism and regular everyday shoppers, because we’re going to lose workers who clean our hotel rooms, cook our food, and do our landscaping during those beautiful months when it’s not cold.”
Compañeros is calling on Durango’s elected officials to take immediate action. They demand stronger protections for immigrants and transparency from the city’s newly formed immigration task force. The organization is urging city councilors to ensure that lawful activities by residents, volunteers, and advocates are safeguarded from intimidation.
In a press release, Compañeros raised critical questions regarding the selection process and transparency of the Immigration Task Force. They expressed concern over being excluded from discussions, despite being a significant regional stakeholder. “They may have their qualms with me – the executive director – but there’s other folks within our organization that are ready to be in that space and work collaboratively,” Orozco-Perez stated.
This situation is evolving rapidly, and Compañeros is making it clear that the community must remain vigilant. The organization is urging residents to stay informed and involved, emphasizing that the impact of federal immigration enforcement is felt by everyone in Durango.
As this story develops, Compañeros and local advocates are pushing for a public forum to discuss these urgent issues and to ensure that the voices of all community members are heard. The time for action is now, as the ramifications of this enforcement could reshape the very fabric of Durango’s community and economy.
Residents are encouraged to share their experiences and support one another during this critical period. More updates will follow as the situation unfolds.
