A Joint Statement by Senator Andrew Zwicker, Assemblyman Roy Freiman, Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis, Commissioner Paul Drake, Commissioner Elizabeth Grainer, Committeewoman Jill Gomez, and Committeewoman Samantha Hand Supporting Peaceful Protests Against ICE

Hillsborough, NJ - On Friday, students at Hillsborough High School organized a walkout in response to ICE activity in Minneapolis and across the country. Their actions reflect a growing concern among young people and a deep commitment to justice, accountability, and human dignity.

We recognize the courage it takes to speak out against injustice and commend these students for exercising their constitutional right to peacefully protest. Their voices matter, and their engagement is a powerful reminder of the role youth play in shaping a more just society.

On the following day, community members and organizers gathered for a vigil to honor the lives of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two U.S. citizens who were shot and killed by ICE agents. The vigil also recognized others who have lost their lives in connection with ICE activity. As of January 28, there have been eight reported deaths associated with ICE and detention facilities.

We thank the Hillsborough Police Department, who were present for the vigil to ensure safety after receiving threats from counter-protestors. Additionally, we thank the Hillsborough Department of Public Works for plowing the sidewalks in preparation for the vigil.

The events that unfolded in Hillsborough are part of a broader national reckoning over ICE’s oppressive tactics and the profound human consequences of immigration enforcement’s impact on citizens and non-citizens alike.

In moments like these, the voices of students and community members remind us that progress is born from empathy, civic engagement, and the courage to stand up for one another.

“The enthusiasm of youth is the spark that lights the fires of progress.”
— Daisaku Ikeda, Japanese Buddhist philosopher, educator, and author