FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2025

Press Contact: press@alianzaamericas.org 

Cindy Cruz - El Salvador +503 7803 8465

Sandra Díaz - Estados Unidos (773) 638-4278

‍Chicago, IL – Alianza Americas is deeply concerned with the arrest of Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan. This represents a dangerous escalation in the administration’s authoritarian impulses as it seeks to destroy the system of checks and balances, aiming against those who uphold the rule of law.

Let us be clear, this administration appears more focused on weaponizing the federal government than on respecting individuals' constitutional rights to due process. From targeting law firms and universities to disregarding judicial orders and now arresting a sitting judge, this administration continues to undermine the legal foundations of our democracy in its campaign to demonize immigrant children, families, and communities. 

This is not just about immigration enforcement. It is a threat to every constitutional protection we have as people living in the United States. A functioning democracy depends on the independence of the judiciary and the fair administration of justice. Judges, like all public servants, have a solemn duty to uphold the Constitution and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of immigration status. Criminalizing the impartial exercise of that duty threatens the very principles on which our legal system stands. 

The continued silence and inaction from a co-opted Congress is enabling irreparable harm. Now is the time for every elected official to be held accountable to their oath to defend the Constitution and protect our communities.

If the Administration has any questions about Judge Dugan's actions, there were other means to conduct an investigation that do not include her arrest. This action is an attempt to intimidate judges. It will not work because people in the United States will uphold the rule of law. 

Alianza Americas remains rooted in our commitment to justice, due process, and the rights of immigrant communities. We call on all people of conscience to join us in defending our democracy.

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Alianza Americas is the premier transnational advocacy network of Latin American migrant-led organizations working in the United States, across the Americas, and globally to create an inclusive, equitable and sustainable way of life for communities across North, Central and South America.

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