Nurses Take a Stand Against Immigration Enforcement in Chicago
On Thursday, nurses in Chicago held a rally as part of a national movement against federal immigration enforcement. They gathered in the Medical District to call for the abolition of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and to advocate for increased funding in healthcare.
The event took place outside the old Cook County Hospital, which has been transformed into a hotel. Union nurses joined in this demonstration aimed at raising awareness about the effects of immigration enforcement on public health.
The Impact on Healthcare
Speakers at the rally emphasized a critical point: immigration enforcement can be harmful to public health. They highlighted that fear of deportation leads many immigrants to avoid seeking necessary medical care. Emy Roth, an emergency room nurse, expressed her concerns, stating, “We are terrified when ICE shows up in our emergency departments, often bringing in patients harmed by their actions.”
Additionally, another nurse pointed out that resources should be redirected away from immigration enforcement toward essential services like healthcare and education.
Historical Context
Concerns over ICE operations within healthcare facilities are not new. Last fall, news emerged that ICE and Border Patrol agents attempted to enter Stroger Hospital in search of immigrants. Such actions have created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety among patients, causing them to avoid medical treatment altogether.
In response, Cook County officials issued an executive order prohibiting hospital staff from cooperating with immigration enforcement. This move was aimed at protecting patients and ensuring their access to healthcare.
Nurses for Change
The participating nurses are not just raising their voices; they are mobilizing their union’s national membership to push for policy changes. They encourage voters to consider immigration enforcement issues in upcoming elections, stressing the importance of making healthcare accessible for everyone.
In today’s political landscape, healthcare and immigration issues are often intertwined. Surveys show that a significant portion of the population believes that everyone deserves access to healthcare, regardless of their immigration status.
Ultimately, nurses are advocating for a healthcare system that prioritizes well-being over enforcement, making it clear that health should come before fear. For more insights on this topic, check out this report on public health and immigration enforcement.
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