National Baptist Convention Condemns ICE Actions in Jacksonville

The National Baptist Convention, holding its mid-winter gathering in Jacksonville, has expressed strong opposition to the activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). During the event, convention leaders compared ICE to a notorious terror organization, citing concerns over its methods and impact on communities. The group, which has nearly 7.5 million members across 31,000 historically Black churches, was founded in 1895 to advocate for higher education, mission work, and social justice. Over 3,000 members gathered in Downtown Jacksonville during the convention, underscoring the organization’s influence and the gravity of its stance.

The convention’s president, Boise Kimber, criticized ICE officials for obscuring their identities, likening their actions to those of the Ku Klux Klan. Kimber’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among some Black denominations regarding the federal agency’s operations. The National Baptist Convention’s position highlights the intersection of religious advocacy and social justice, emphasizing the role of historically Black churches in addressing community concerns.

Tension in Jacksonville has also involved local government. Yanira Cardona, the city’s Hispanic outreach coordinator, was placed on administrative leave after posting a video on social media discussing recent ICE activity. The video, shot inside City Hall during business hours, was not authorized by the administration. Mayor Donna Deegan clarified that the leave was not due to the content of the video but because Cardona violated policy by not seeking prior approval for the recording.

The city’s Hispanic community, which has grown to an estimated 115,000 residents—about 12% of the population—has been a focus of local outreach efforts. Cardona, a native of Puerto Rico who moved to Duval County in 2004, was hired in early 2024 to strengthen connections with this growing demographic. Her suspension has raised questions about the administration’s approach to community engagement and the balance between free speech and policy compliance.

Anti-ICE demonstrations in Downtown Jacksonville have drawn on historical references, including the Declaration of Independence, to frame their arguments. These protests reflect a broader national debate over immigration enforcement and its impact on communities. The situation in Jacksonville underscores the complex interplay between local governance, federal policy, and community advocacy.

The controversy has also extended to the federal level, with recent events in Minneapolis drawing attention. Federal officials have labeled Renee Good, a 37-year-old woman shot and killed by ICE agents, as a domestic terrorist. However, her family and on-scene video of the incident challenge that characterization, highlighting the ongoing debate over the agency’s actions and the narratives surrounding them.

The situation in Jacksonville illustrates the challenges faced by communities navigating federal immigration policies. As tensions rise, the role of historically Black denominations in advocating for social justice and community welfare remains significant. Their public statements and actions continue to shape the discourse around immigration, law enforcement, and the rights of residents.

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