The following is a copy of an email I sent to both of my US Senators as well as my House representative. I wanted to share it publicly as well.
My name is David White, and I have lived in Chattanooga for over 15 years. I work as a Senior IT Infrastructure Engineer and I’m the founder of a small web hosting company. I’m also a father, a graduate of Covenant College, and an active member of my church and community. I lead the security team at my church, hold an FCC Amateur Radio license, and am an active volunteer in some of our community’s emergency radio communication efforts.
For too long, I have remained silent about issues that I care very much about. I am disappointed about the ways in which our current government policies are hurting individuals, families, communities, and our nation as a whole.
The two recent fatal shootings of American citizens by federal immigration enforcement agents in Minneapolis are deeply disturbing and raise serious concerns about accountability, transparency, and trust in federal law-enforcement actions. As you know, the Minnesota BCA’s investigation into both incidents was curtailed when federal authorities took exclusive control of the cases, preventing the BCA from accessing evidence, witnesses, and investigative materials.
Given that there have been multiple shootings, this is unacceptable. One of the most sacred duties of our government is to protect its citizens and ensure justice is administered fairly. In light of these events, I urge you to take appropriate action to:
- Support efforts that allow Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), or another independent state authority, full participation in the investigations of federal use-of-force incidents, ensuring transparency and public confidence; and
- Conduct congressional oversight of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to review rules of engagement, use-of-force standards, and accountability mechanisms.
I strongly disagree with President Trump’s approach to immigration enforcement. Our nation thrives on diversity and is stronger because of the many cultures represented by people who call the United States home. For those Republicans who identify as Christians, these policies are especially troubling, given the clear biblical commands to welcome the stranger and care for the vulnerable.
Instead of making our cities safer, the current enforcement approach has resulted in the deaths of U.S. citizens, undermined public trust, and torn families and communities apart. These outcomes are unacceptable.
Thank you for your service to Tennessee. I appreciate your attention to these concerns and welcome the opportunity to discuss them further.
Sincerely,
David White
Chattanooga, TN
