Indivisible Smith County Responds to Business Leaders’ Press Conference: “Our Hispanic Neighbors Deserve Safety — Not ICE Overreach.”

TYLER, TX — On Tuesday Nov. 25, 2025, leaders from the restaurant, hotel, hospitality, and construction sectors publicly affirmed their support for Hispanic residents and workers across Smith County. Indivisible Smith County welcomes this message and reiterates a simple truth: the Hispanic community is essential to our local economy and our shared future.

Yet reassurance alone cannot overcome the real fear created by expanded ICE cooperation in Smith County. Recent 287(g)-style agreements, including the one signed by Constable Josh Joplin, have intensified uncertainty for families who already contribute so much to the fabric of East Texas.

“Too often we fall back into old patterns — creating an ‘other’ to blame,” said Laura Neil, co-leader of Indivisible Smith County. “I teach my children to put themselves in someone else’s shoes and to help whenever they can. If we expect these values from our kids, we should demand them from our leaders. Tyler and Smith County must protect all families with the same dignity we want for our own.”

Local confidence has also been shaken by past reports of ICE detaining the wrong individuals, acting without identifying themselves, and questioning residents in front of children. Nationally, ICE partnerships have been linked to racial profiling, family separation, and reduced community trust. These impacts extend beyond households, affecting schools, workplaces, and local businesses.

Still, there are signs of unity. “Several Hispanic leaders and I met with Sheriff Larry Smith, and he assured us once again that law-abiding residents will not be targeted for ICE detention,” said Hector Garza, former Smith County Democratic Party Chair. “With this assurance, the Hispanic community can enjoy the holidays, spend time with family, and rest.”

Indivisible Smith County stresses that true community safety requires structural action, not just assurances. We call on the Smith County Commissioners Court, municipal leaders, and law enforcement agencies to end all ICE collaboration agreements and reverse recent approvals.

These partnerships do not reduce crime — but they do disrupt families, create fear, and erode trust between public institutions and the people they serve.

To our Hispanic neighbors: we see you, we value you, and we stand with you. Smith County thrives because of your labor, culture, and resilience. You deserve to live, work, and raise your families without fear of being separated or targeted.