In areas supporting Trump, suburban grandmothers resist ICE

HAMILTON, OH Nearly 70 locals have been attending weekly meetings of the Butler County Commissioners to protest the county's collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). "Im here because Im angry and I cant stay silent," said Cassie Stevens, a Hamilton resident, during the Nov. 18 meeting. "I want to be able to tell my grandchildren I stood up."

For 17 consecutive weeks, residents have voiced opposition to Sheriff Richard Jones March agreement with ICE, which permits the Butler County Jail to detain individuals facing deportation. The contract, which the commissioners approved, brings millions in federal funding to the county.

At the most recent meeting, more than 70 people filled the room, many standing in the aisles. The majority were white women with silver or white cropped hair. After the meeting, they continued their protest outside in the cold November rain, holding homemade signs.

Community Mobilizes at Commissioner Meetings

Sharon Meyer of Hamilton criticized the county's deal with ICE, stating it sends a clear message: "If you dont look like us, you need a passport to stay in Butler County." Emotional moments arose as attendees shared stories about neighbors, friends, and classmates fearing ICE arrests.

During public comments, and despite being asked not to, participants sang "America the Beautiful."

Anne Jantzen, 82, leads the group Butler County for Immigrant Justice, which organizes these protests. She began attending meetings in the summer and connected with like-minded residents through email. "They reached out to be part of this," she told The Enquirer. Her group members range in age from 60 to 85. Retirees can more easily attend the Tuesday morning meetings, though meetings are also streamed online. Speakers must attend in person to comment publicly.

Benjamin McCall, a Liberty Township resident and 2024 Democratic candidate for the Ohio House, said he now carries his passport daily out of concern for ICE enforcement. President Donald Trump carried Butler County with 62% of the vote in 2024, while federal funding to the sheriffs office began arriving this month.

Residents Denounce ICE Agreement

Stevens called the contract "dirty money" and said it has emboldened racists. Melanie Stearns of Hamilton criticized the county's reputation for cooperating with ICE. The Butler County Jail is the only Ohio facility operating under a Jail Enforcement Model agreement, allowing extended ICE detentions.

Jay Stevison, who recently joined the group, became emotional talking about his three grandchildren, who have a Latino parent. "I would defend them with my life if ICE tried to take them," he said.

Commissioners Defend ICE Partnership

Commissioner T.C. Rogers argued the ICE collaboration is necessary due to migration pressures. During the public comment session, 20 residents opposed the contract while none spoke in favor. Commissioners, all Republicans, defended the agreement.

Commissioner Cindy Carpenter, serving since 2011, said the sheriff independently sets policies and coordinates with federal agencies, including ICE. Butler County Prosecutor Mike Gmoser emphasized the sheriff requires commissioner approval for most agreements, including the ICE contract.

Carpenter later told The Enquirer that commissioners aim to support county operations without imposing political views. "We would lose credibility if we undermined officeholders judgment," she explained.

The February resolution amended the sheriff's contract with the U.S. Marshals Service, allowing ICE detainees in the jail. Either party can terminate the agreement. Rogers cited CNN reports claiming ICE activity was needed due to the 2023 border migration surge, which has since slowed.

Outside the Nov. 18 meeting, the Butler County for Immigrant Justice group continued their protest, demonstrating community opposition to the countys ICE partnership.

Community Protests Butler County’s ICE Collaboration: A Closer Look

For nearly four months, a growing group of Butler County residents has been voicing its opposition to the county's partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The collaboration, which allows ICE detainees to be held at the Butler County Jail, has sparked intense debate in the community. Protesters argue that the agreement not only jeopardizes immigrant rights but also fosters division in a county already struggling with political polarization.

Each week, more than 70 residents gather at the county commissioner meetings to make their voices heard. These protesters, predominantly white women aged 60 to 85, have used their platform to share personal stories about how the ICE agreement is affecting their neighbors and friends. The emotional testimony has painted a clear picture of a community divided, with many voicing concerns about the impact of immigration enforcement on local families. Despite the rainy November weather, the protests continued outside the meeting, further underscoring the residents' commitment to their cause.

While the protests grow in size, the county commissioners remain resolute in their stance. Despite overwhelming opposition during the public comment portion of the meetings, they argue that the agreement is vital for maintaining the county's operations and securing federal funding. Commissioner T.C. Rogers emphasized that the county is under pressure due to national migration trends, which he says necessitate such partnerships. However, critics argue that these collaborations go against the county's values and undermine trust within its communities.

As the debate continues, the key question remains: will the county reconsider its stance, or will the protests be a defining moment in the community’s struggle to balance safety and immigrant rights?

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• In Trump country, suburban grandmas push back against ICE