WASHINGTON (AP) — The brothers of Renee Good, one of the two U.S. citizens fatally shot by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis, have implored Congress to take decisive action against the violence associated with immigration enforcement operations. The tragic incident, which occurred on January 7 when Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was killed, has sparked national outrage and calls for reform in immigration policy.
During a congressional hearing held by Democratic lawmakers, brothers Luke and Brett Ganger spoke solemnly about their sister's death, communicating the deep emotional toll it has taken on their family. The session aimed to shed light on the use-of-force incidents involving Department of Homeland Security officers engaged in arrests and deportations.
Luke Ganger expressed the profound distress that their family has experienced due to his sister's violent and unnecessary death and articulated the need for meaningful change in immigration operations, particularly those occurring in Minneapolis. He remarked, 'The completely surreal scenes taking place on the streets of Minneapolis are beyond explanation. This is not just a bad day, or a rough week, or isolated incidents. These encounters with federal agents are changing the community and changing many lives, including ours, forever.'
The forum drew attention to specific complaints against Homeland Security officers, who have been criticized for their aggressive tactics under former President Donald Trump’s mass deportation agenda. Contrary to the administration's claims that Good attempted to run over an officer, local officials and protesters have rejected this characterization, fueling further outrage.
While the Ganger brothers did not delve into the specifics of their sister's case, they focused on her legacy. Luke emphasized the importance of portraying their sister as a vibrant individual— a 'beautiful American' who was loved dearly as a sister, daughter, and mother. Brett Ganger shared poignant excerpts from his eulogy, likening her spirit to dandelions that blossom even in adversity and stressing her belief in kindness and hope.
As testimonies continued, concerns over the treatment of U.S. citizens by Homeland Security officials were echoed, highlighting the pressing need for reform and a reevaluation of immigration enforcement practices.
During a congressional hearing held by Democratic lawmakers, brothers Luke and Brett Ganger spoke solemnly about their sister's death, communicating the deep emotional toll it has taken on their family. The session aimed to shed light on the use-of-force incidents involving Department of Homeland Security officers engaged in arrests and deportations.
Luke Ganger expressed the profound distress that their family has experienced due to his sister's violent and unnecessary death and articulated the need for meaningful change in immigration operations, particularly those occurring in Minneapolis. He remarked, 'The completely surreal scenes taking place on the streets of Minneapolis are beyond explanation. This is not just a bad day, or a rough week, or isolated incidents. These encounters with federal agents are changing the community and changing many lives, including ours, forever.'
The forum drew attention to specific complaints against Homeland Security officers, who have been criticized for their aggressive tactics under former President Donald Trump’s mass deportation agenda. Contrary to the administration's claims that Good attempted to run over an officer, local officials and protesters have rejected this characterization, fueling further outrage.
While the Ganger brothers did not delve into the specifics of their sister's case, they focused on her legacy. Luke emphasized the importance of portraying their sister as a vibrant individual— a 'beautiful American' who was loved dearly as a sister, daughter, and mother. Brett Ganger shared poignant excerpts from his eulogy, likening her spirit to dandelions that blossom even in adversity and stressing her belief in kindness and hope.
As testimonies continued, concerns over the treatment of U.S. citizens by Homeland Security officials were echoed, highlighting the pressing need for reform and a reevaluation of immigration enforcement practices.
