FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) — On Wednesday afternoon, several local organizations are coming together to stage a protest at the Allen County Courthouse in response to recent executive orders signed by Indiana Governor Mike Braun and proposed state legislation. The protest aims to voice concerns over the governor’s recent actions and to stand in solidarity with those affected by them.
Executive Order Concerns
One of the main points of contention is an executive order signed by Governor Braun on Tuesday, which directs Indiana state police and the Indiana National Guard to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The move has raised concerns among activists and local organizations about its potential impact on immigrant communities and civil rights.
Ryne Norby, a member of the Hoosier Human Rights Initiative (HHMI), explained the purpose of the protest, stating, “This protest is to show solidarity with those who are affected by the proposed legislation as well as those executive orders and give people a way to take action.” Norby emphasized that the protest is not solely focused on immigration issues but also addresses broader concerns, including women’s rights and LGBTQ+ issues.
Governor Braun’s Statement
Governor Braun defended the executive order, explaining that the decision was made to assist the federal government in identifying individuals considered to be a high priority for deportation. He stated, “Indiana is going to be a state that is going to be helping the administration find these folks that are described as the worst first, and I’m happy to do it.” Braun added that the order was not driven by an increase in suspected illegal immigrants in the state but rather a desire to assist federal authorities in their enforcement efforts.
“I’m going to direct any of our authorities to not resist and hopefully they’ll be compliant on their own,” Braun said regarding the order’s enforcement.
Broad Coalition of Groups Involved
Though the protest initially gained traction due to concerns over immigration policies, Ryne Norby made it clear that the issues at the heart of the protest extend beyond immigration. “There are many other things that we’re here to show solidarity for,” he stated, mentioning women’s rights activists and the LGBTQ+ community as groups also impacted by recent legislation.
The Hoosier Human Rights Initiative is organizing the protest, but many other groups are expected to participate, with tables set up to provide information and opportunities for attendees to get involved in various causes. Norby emphasized that the protest would remain peaceful, with a focus on creating a sense of community and supporting those affected by the proposed changes.
“If you’re thinking about coming out, this is going to be nothing but peaceful. We’re going to be showing solidarity with those affected by these proposed legislations and it’s just going to be a sense of community,” said Norby.
The protest at the Allen County Courthouse is expected to attract a diverse group of activists and community members, all uniting for a common cause in response to the actions of Governor Mike Braun.