Correspondences - User Expressions - for the 5th of September

Opinion Pieces - Expression of Thought - for September 5 - editorial, Your Voice | West Hawaii Today

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2025 September 15 . 7:24 AM

2 min read

Voices Through Letters - September 5 Edition

Correspondences - User Expressions - for the 5th of September

In a growing controversy, ICE agents and their superiors are facing accusations of violating state and national laws. The legal process in immigration matters, which is designed to protect the rights of all individuals, is being disregarded, leading to calls for accountability.

The unlawful use of state assets, land, facilities, funds, and personnel to support these illegal behaviors is a matter of concern. The state might consider taking legal action against the federal government to put a stop to these practices. Anyone knowingly supporting these actions is also complicit and should be held accountable.

Due process, a fundamental aspect of civil society, is being overlooked in the actions of ICE agents. This protection, which safeguards both citizens and noncitizens, is crucial in maintaining the rule of law.

ICE agents have been reported to be rounding up people in streets and homes, then deporting them without a judicial warrant or chance for legal defense. This lack of due process is a significant concern.

The large part of the economy relying on undocumented immigrants operates in cash, thereby avoiding tax reporting and payments. This not only undermines the fairness of the tax system but also puts a strain on public resources.

Employers of undocumented immigrants are not being prosecuted, despite breaking the law. These employers often take advantage of undocumented workers by paying low wages, providing unsafe working conditions, and offering no legal recourse.

A simple work visa is proposed as a potential solution to address this issue. The state Legislature is being asked to call for a special session to stop this illegal behavior and put pressure on federal legislation to address immigration issues.

There is growing concern about the federal administration using the immigration issue to erode due process rights in any circumstance. This has led to comparisons between the behavior of ICE agents and practices such as kidnapping and human trafficking.

More funding for immigration courts would help reduce the backlog of cases, ensuring a more efficient and fair system. Additionally, more funding for state labor law enforcement would help reduce the employment of illegal laborers by unethical employers.

The issue of undocumented immigration has been neglected for a long time and has grown out of control. It is now time for action to ensure that the rule of law is upheld and the rights of all individuals are protected. The legal responsibility to stop the unlawful use of ICE agents by federal authorities and to prosecute those responsible lies with the state and federal law enforcement authorities, including the Hawaii Attorney General's office and the U.S. Department of Justice.