Learn more about impact of 'extreme' ICE operations in Wisconsin
La Crosse Tribune: Ann Tyndall | Published on 10/31/2025
As a grandchild of pre-World War I immigrants, I find the increased presence of ICE operations in our cities and farmlands to be both extreme and disturbing. How terrifying it must be to feel hunted. To have a member of your family disappear without warning and no way to find them.
In September, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that immigration arrests in Wisconsin more than doubled from September 2023 through July 2025. An analysis of ICE data shows the sharpest increase in arrests has been of people without any criminal record whatsoever; their only known offense is a civil immigration violation.
Immigrants are part of Wisconsin’s communities. They are our neighbors and friends, and when they are detained and deported without due process, it weakens the rights and protections that keep all of us free. The League of Women Voters believes this moment is not just about immigrants. If the government can detain one group of people without transparency or accountability, it erodes democracy for all.
On Nov. 12, the La Crosse Area LWV is welcoming immigrant advocate Ben Sonsalla as our featured program speaker. Ben will draw upon his 12 years working at Catholic Charities to offer a community-based perspective on this issue. He’s invited to share information we need to know be supportive neighbors and advocates for those seeking to join our nation of immigrants.
Register and find more information about this event at the League’s website www.lwvlacrosse.org.
Ann Tyndall, La Crosse