Statement Regarding Border Patrol agents in North Carolina by the McDowell County Democratic Party

November 21, 2025

We believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, including the immigrants that live and work in McDowell County. Our community is stronger for them. We believe this is not the time to give in to fear and division. Now is the time to build community, and to fight for the safety and dignity of every person. As reports of confirmed arrests and Border Patrol sightings increase in surrounding towns, many families in McDowell County are living in fear and keeping their children out of school, not going to work, and not picking up needed groceries and prescriptions.

As a Party, we want to be very clear: We support due process and the removal of any individual who poses a real danger to our community. However, what communities across the country are experiencing now is not targeted at enforcement of violent offenders. What we are seeing – far too often – is racialized, aggressive and even violent policing, regardless of immigration status. Being here without documentation is not a violent crime, and those who are undocumented should not be treated like violent criminals. 

 We urge everyone who is exercising their first amendment rights to remain peaceful and to follow the law. Do not allow yourself to be provoked, and do not put yourself or others in danger.

How you can help and stay informed:

  • Follow Centro Unido on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date information

  • View statewide map of reported sightings at ojonc.org 

  • Guidance from the ACLU on knowing your rights

  • Report verified sightings and incidents to the 24-hour CIMA Hotline: (888) 849-2839

We are a nation of immigrants, and we will continue to work until every person in our County, regardless of their status, is safe.