In response to the recent killing of Minnesota resident Alex Pretti by ICE agents, New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP) has called for state action to protect immigrant communities. Nicole Rodriguez, President of NJPP, issued a statement highlighting concerns over federal enforcement practices and their impact on local communities.
“ICE agents killed Alex Pretti in Minnesota. He was 37, an American citizen, a nurse, someone who should have been safe. He’s not the first person killed by ICE, and communities of color have been bearing the brunt of this violence for years. No one is safe when federal agents operate without accountability. Immigrant families across New Jersey are watching, terrified they’re next. This is what state violence looks like, and it’s exactly why New Jersey must act now to protect our neighbors.
“When the federal government threatens communities instead of supporting them, states have power. New Jersey can limit local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, fund legal defense services for immigrants facing deportation, and ensure that everyone — regardless of immigration status — can access health care, education, and public safety without fear. These aren’t abstract ideas. They’re concrete policies that keep families together and make it harder for federal agents to tear communities apart.
“This is what our work is for. We fight for policies that protect immigrant communities and fix our broken criminal justice system because everyone deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to build a life here. Right now, that means using every tool we have at the state level to stand between our neighbors and a federal government that sees them as targets. New Jersey can do this. We should.”
NJPP advocates for equitable policies aimed at addressing racial, social, and economic disparities within the state through policy research and advocacy efforts found on its official website. The organization focuses on advancing economic justice and well-being for all residents by providing data-driven analysis to inform policymakers about key issues such as budget policy and social welfare.
Founded in 1997 as an independent nonpartisan think tank headquartered in Trenton,NJPP produces reports and commentary on matters affecting New Jersey residents including those related to immigrant rights.The group also engages in statewide advocacy through events and community outreach.
