Police/ICE Collaboration and Community Health

Another letter in the Globe - I am a "shadow author." Check out http://uncoverthetruth.org/ for more info on Secure Communities.

The Secure Communities program not only has immigrant advocacy groups concerned; health care providers are increasingly worried about the health implications of this program.

Public health studies, such as a recent one in Everett by the Institute for Community Health, have found that the presence of the US Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in communities leads to fear and anxiety among immigrants, their families, and their friends, as a result of the amplified threat of deportation. Chronic fear and stress contribute to increased cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal problems, chronic pain, and decreased immune function. Fear may also lead to the avoidance of health care. Immigrants in the study reported being afraid to go to their medical appointments when ICE was present.

By increasing collaboration among ICE and state and local police statewide, Secure Communities may exacerbate these negative health impacts for communities across Massachusetts. As health professionals, we join with community groups in opposing the Secure Communities program.

http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/letters/articles/2011/05/06/some_fear_program_could_be_bad_for_our_health/