The front page of the Jan. 30 Portland Press Herald reported Sen. Collins congratulating herself for making a deal with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to end its “enhanced” immigration actions in Maine. There was no mention of release of its victims, or restitution for the damage and fear it has inflicted on our communities. Nor any mention of limiting those “enhanced” actions in other states. 

Meanwhile, on page C1 it was reported that Rep. Deqa Dhalac, D-South Portland, has decided not to run again, citing threats stemming from the increasingly hostile and unsafe climate for Black and brown public servants like herself. I regret that she feels forced to drop out, and I thank her for her contributions. 

Put together, these reports tragically show that oppressive racism is coming back. If it were not, Sen. Collins would have spoken up when the “enhanced” tactics began in other states, instead of waiting until they got so unpopular here in Maine. And, Rep. Dhalac would feel free to run again, without threats from the followers of our current president.

Neil Gallagher
Brunswick