To the editor,

We were very happy to see the Newton Center Jan 10 protest get good coverage in the Newton Beacon (“At anti-ICE protest, Laredo vows to fight fascism, keep Newton a welcoming city”).

We were at the event (could not really make out Mayor Laredo’s speech, but we did hear it). We found it a bit surprising that no Newton police at all were on hand to protect those engaging in peaceful protest. Fortunately, it turned out not to be necessary, but one cannot be sure that that will always be the case.

We understand that the Newton Police cannot interfere with ICE when legitimate ICE agents are acting legally. That said, will Newton Police show up to merely observe ICE agents should they come to Newton, and make sure they are acting legally? Given what is happening today in Minneapolis, where peaceful protestors are being unlawfully attacked by ICE, will we be protected from such activity?

Dinah Bodkin

Paula Wolk

Waban

Editor’s Note: The protest did have police officers present, but they stayed on the outside the Newton Centre Green, perhaps not very noticeably.