Registered nurses, represented by National Nurses United (NNU), are raising alarms about the detrimental impact of federal immigration enforcement agencies on public health and safety. In a series of coordinated protests on February 19, nurses are calling on Congress to cease funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), and advocating for the abolition of ICE. They assert that these agencies pose significant threats to both patients and communities, particularly marginalized groups.
Mary Turner, an intensive care nurse from Minneapolis and president of NNU, emphasized the urgent need for action. “We are way past the point of ‘reform,’” she stated, arguing that laws are not being enforced to protect the vulnerable. She accused ICE and other enforcement agencies of operating with violence and cruelty, characterizing their actions as a threat to democracy itself. Turner also criticized hospital executives for failing to take a stand in solidarity with nurses and immigrant patients, allowing the situation to worsen.
Among the core issues identified by the nurses are the violent tactics employed by ICE, which they claim have resulted in injuries and fatalities among both immigrants and U.S. citizens. The presence of these agencies at hospitals not only intimidates patients but also discourages them from seeking necessary medical care. This behavior jeopardizes public health, particularly in communities of color, where individuals often face barriers to accessing healthcare.
The conditions in immigration detention facilities are equally alarming, according to the nurses. Reports indicate a lack of adequate food, water, and medical care, contributing to preventable deaths and the spread of diseases such as measles. Since 2025, 40 individuals have reportedly died while in ICE custody, raising serious ethical concerns regarding the treatment of detainees.
Turner highlighted the inequities faced by non-white individuals, noting that ICE routinely targets these populations for harassment and detention. The financial implications are also significant, as enforcement actions divert funds away from essential healthcare programs like Medicaid, exacerbating an already strained system.
“We nurses take an oath to always advocate for the health and safety of our patients, and that means not only at the bedside but beyond,” Turner reiterated. With over 225,000 members, NNU represents the largest nurse union in the United States, comprising various state affiliates. The ongoing protests underscore the commitment of nurses to protect the vulnerable and demand systemic changes for the sake of public health.
As the situation continues to unfold, the call to action from NNU resonates with many as they strive to create a healthier and safer environment for all communities. The collective efforts of nurses demonstrate a powerful advocacy for justice and health equity, highlighting the critical intersections of public health and immigration policies.