Big Tech’s Influence on Immigration Policy

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27
PROGRAM #11312 12:00 PM PT

Big Tech’s Influence on Immigration Policy.

Powerful technology companies are gaining direct influence over Department of Homeland Security decisions involving public surveillance and border enforcement, raising concerns for vulnerable communities, including immigrants, according to a new report. Which companies and contracts are driving this shift? How is that influence shaping immigration and security policy? And what can communities and advocacy groups do to demand greater transparency and accountability?

Guest: Cathy Carrillo, National Organizer for the “No Tech 4 ICE” Campaign, Mijente, Nashville, TN.

Another Death in ICE Custody. The death of a lawful permanent resident in ICE custody in Texas is drawing international condemnation and renewed calls for stronger human rights protections. Emiliano Andrade-Covarrubias died in Laredo after months in detention; his family says he did not receive proper care for several medical conditions. Eighteen Mexican nationals have now died in ICE custody during the current administration, including 14 immigrants in Texas. Why was Emiliano detained despite being a legal permanent resident? Could his death have been prevented? And who is investigating the case?

Guest: Javier Hidalgo, Attorney and Public Affairs Director, Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services-RAICES, San Antonio, TX.

A Young Man with Disabilities Is Detained and Attacked by ICE Agents. Erick Zepeda, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen and special education student, was mistakenly detained by federal immigration agents while walking to class in Santa Maria, California. During the arrest, Erick sustained injuries when agents forcibly dragged him into their vehicle and assaulted him, leaving him without medical attention, with numerous bruises, lacerations, and a broken wrist that required surgery. How are local authorities, rapid-response groups, and area residents responding to this violent act? What is Erick’s current condition?

Guest: Primitiva Hernández, Executive Director, 805 UndocuFund, Lompoc, CA.

Photo: US DHS

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