Anti-ICE protesters to gather outside Joplin City Hall ahead of council meeting
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A Joplin city councilman's push to explore a partnership with ICE is drawing organized opposition, with protesters planning to gather outside City Hall just before the council's next regular meeting.
The Joplin-Area Democratic Socialists of America is organizing an "ICE Out Joplin" demonstration Monday, October 19, beginning at 5 p.m.
The protest follows Brian Cowles' suggestion that the Joplin Police Department consider joining the federal 287(g) program, which allows specially trained local officers to perform certain immigration enforcement duties under federal supervision.
Cowles SAYS the partnership could provide valuable federal resources to Joplin police, including potential funding for salaries, overtime, benefits, and equipment.
But organizers are urging residents to oppose the idea before it gains any more traction.
"The safety of our immigrant neighbors far outweighs any benefits," the group wrote in its protest announcement, which also included sharp criticism of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Organizers are distributing printable protest signs bearing slogans including "No 287(g)" and "Keep Joplin ICE-Free."
Cowles has maintained that his interest in the program is focused on public safety and potential financial assistance, not partisan politics.
He says immigration laws should be enforced lawfully while treating people with dignity and respect.
Several Southwest Missouri law enforcement agencies already participate in the federal program, including the Jasper and Newton county sheriff's offices.
The protest also comes amid growing scrutiny of ICE activity following the detention of 19-year-old Rodrigo Gonzalez Carbajal, a McDonald County High School student taken into federal immigration custody after a traffic stop in Noel.
There is no confirmation that the issue will appear on the October 19 council agenda.
