For Immediate Release: January 8, 2026 by President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org
Orlando, FL —The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is horrified and outraged by the killing of a 37-year-old woman by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minnesota. According to publicly available reports, the woman was shot and killed while in her car during an ICE operation. This devastating and unconscionable act demands immediate transparency, accountability, and justice.
“This is a profound violation of human rights,” said Julie Kent, President FL NOW. “A woman lost her life at the hands of a government agency that is supposed to protect the public. Instead, she was met with lethal force. We refuse to accept a system where women — especially immigrant women and women of color — are treated as disposable.”
FL NOW calls for:
- A full, independent investigation into the circumstances of the shooting
- Immediate public release of all body‑camera footage, reports, and evidence
- Accountability for all agents involved, including administrative and criminal consequences were warranted
- A federal review of ICE use‑of‑force policies, particularly in operations involving women, families, and non-violent encounters
- Investment in humane, community-based alternatives that do not rely on militarized enforcement
This tragedy is part of a broader pattern of violence and abuse that immigrant communities — especially women — have been sounding the alarm about for years. FL NOW stands firmly with immigrant‑rights organizations, community leaders, and the victim’s family in demanding justice and systemic change.
“Women deserve safety, dignity, and the right to live without fear,” said Debbie Deland, VP FL NOW. “We expect a full investigation. We will not look away. We will not be silent.”
Media Contact: Debbie Deland, vp@flnow.org, 407 234-6408
