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Baldwin Today
By the People, for the People
Lawmakers Hear Harrowing Accounts of ICE Detainee Mistreatment
Detroit-area officials host forum on immigration enforcement, hear stories of denied medical care and excessive bond fees
Published on Feb. 28, 2026
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A group of Detroit-area lawmakers and city council members held a forum to hear from community members and advocates about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the state. Attendees shared harrowing accounts of ICE detainees being denied access to insulin for days, leading to medical emergencies, as well as the financial burdens placed on families to secure the release of detained loved ones.
Why it matters
The forum highlighted ongoing concerns about the treatment of immigrants in ICE detention facilities and the broader impact on local communities. The lawmakers are considering legislative measures to increase transparency, accountability and protections for immigrants facing detention and deportation.
The details
During the forum, attendees heard testimony from Ann Vue, whose husband Lue Yang was detained by ICE, and the Ramirez sisters, whose father Fernando was previously held at the North Lake Processing Center. They described instances of detainees experiencing diabetic shock after being denied insulin for days, as well as the financial hardship families face in trying to secure the release of their loved ones, even when they have proper documentation.
- In July 2025, Ann Vue's husband Lue Yang was detained by ICE.
- The forum was held on Friday, February 28, 2026.
The players
Stephanie Chang
A Democratic state senator representing Detroit.
Mary Cavanagh
A Democratic state senator representing Redford Township.
Jeremy Moss
A Democratic state senator representing Bloomfield Township.
Veronica Paiz
A Democratic state representative from Harper Woods.
James Tate
The president of the Detroit City Council.
What they’re saying
“There have been many examples that my dad has witnessed while in North Lake, where he's seen people go in diabetic shock. He himself when he was first detained was, he was telling us that his mouth was starting to become dry because he did not have access to his insulin for three days.”
— Nahomi Ramirez (Michigan Advance)
“Can we uphold enforcement while strengthening transparency to due process? Can we protect public safety without traumatizing our children? Can we ensure humane conditions and stability instead of uncertainty and fear?”
— Ann Vue (Michigan Advance)
What’s next
The lawmakers are considering legislative measures to increase transparency, accountability and protections for immigrants facing detention and deportation.
The takeaway
The forum highlighted the urgent need to address the inhumane treatment of immigrants in ICE detention facilities and the broader impact on local communities. Lawmakers are exploring ways to balance enforcement with due process and humane conditions, in order to uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals.
