Church leaders criticize ICE presence during preschool pickup in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A United Methodist church in the Charlotte area became the site of unexpected federal law enforcement activity when armed ICE agents conducted an operation during preschool pickup.
No arrests were made, but the May 20 incident raised alarm among families and church leaders.
PREVIOUS: Details emerge about Mexican national arrested by ICE near Charlotte school
The Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church (WNCC) condemned the operation in a May 22 statement, calling it a disruption to sacred space.
'Churches should not be staging grounds for law enforcement,' the group said, emphasizing that their facilities are meant to be safe spaces for all people, regardless of immigration status.
PREVIOUS: ICE activity near Charlotte East Language Academy drop-off area sparks concern
The event comes amid what advocates describe as heightened ICE activity in Charlotte and other major cities since the Trump administration returned to office.
Queen City News has reached out to ICE for comment. The WNCC said it remains committed to protecting the sanctity of its spaces and the dignity of those who seek refuge within them.
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