Charlotte, N.C. — Community leaders and officials in Charlotte, North Carolina's largest city, rallied against an impending federal immigration enforcement operation, which they have labeled an 'invasion.' They are calling for peaceful protests and advising residents to document any enforcement actions they witness.
Mecklenburg County Commissioner Susan Rodriguez-McDowell expressed her concern by stating, 'We are living in the strangest of times,' referencing the political climate under President Trump. The meeting to voice opposition comes after a confirmation from Sheriff Garry McFadden regarding the operation, which is expected to start on Saturday or early next week. The Department of Homeland Security has refrained from commenting on future plans.
State Rep. Jordan Lopez highlighted issues seen in other cities, such as indiscriminate arrests and the deployment of armed agents against unarmed civilians. 'We’ve seen the worst of law enforcement,' he added.
While local officials have not received formal notice from the Trump administration about the operation, they are proactively training volunteers on how to safely protest and assert their rights. Héctor Vaca from Action NC called the operation a 'racist campaign of terror.'
President Trump has defended similar operations, claiming the need to combat crime and enforce immigration laws. Charlotte is home to over 150,000 foreign-born residents, making it an important focal point in the national immigration debate.
With many officials and community members taking a stand, the sentiment is clear: 'Our Queen City will not become a staging ground for fear,' said incoming councilman JD Mazuera Arias, who reassured constituents that local resources won't fund enforcement.
Activists are urging further solidarity through local business support and peaceful activism, calling for unity against fear and division created by federal immigration policies.
