Peaceful Route 11 protest in Hilo calls for end to mass deportations; opposes ICE budget hike

More than 250 people gathered peacefully along Route 11 in Hilo on Sunday to honor the lives of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who both were killed recently by federal agents in Minneapolis.

The gathering also was a protest, calling for changes to federal immigration enforcement, including an end to mass deportations and opposition to additional funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to a press release from the East Hawaiʻi Indivisible chapter, which organized the gathering.

“The actions of ICE in Minneapolis are incredibly cruel and inhumane, and probably criminal,” said Terry McDonald, co-lead of the chapter.

McDonald criticized a proposed $28 billion increase for the agency in the current budget debate.

Participants also urged members of Congress not to support increased funding for the Department of Homeland Security, as lawmakers debated a budget proposal that included billions more for immigration enforcement.

Democrats in Congress opposed the measure on Friday, contributing to a partial federal government shutdown over the weekend.

McDonald said the demonstration grew out of grassroots organizing, similar to a pop-up protest held the previous week in response to killings in Minnesota. The goal, McDonald said, is to support a nationwide effort to move ICE away from broad “dragnet” enforcement and back to targeted actions.

The afternoon protest featured roller skaters, music from boom boxes, and chants, creating what organizers described as a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Organizers said additional actions are planned for Feb. 15 called “Not On Our Presidents Day.” Details to be announced.