From personal observation and extensive research into immigration enforcement in the U.S., it's clear that ICE has maintained a harsh and militarized approach well before recent presidencies. Contrary to some popular beliefs, the agency was already equipped with military-grade weaponry and conducted operations resembling military missions before any significant budget increases under former administrations. During my time following immigration news and witnessing community responses, I've seen how ICE raids and arrests have targeted exploited workers, often under the guise of penalizing unfair labor practices. However, these actions frequently resulted in traumatic family separations, deportations, and in some tragic cases, loss of life within detention facilities. The brutality of these measures cannot be overstated — thousands have suffered under policies that prioritize enforcement over humanitarian concerns. Many debates focus on whether certain officials would have militarized ICE more or less, but facts show that the agency's foundational practices have long been harsh and oppressive. This understanding is crucial because ignoring pre-existing brutality minimizes the suffering experienced by countless immigrants over the years. It's important to recognize the continuous trauma embedded in ICE's operations throughout different administrations to fully grasp the systemic issues requiring reform. In sharing my experiences and observations, I encourage readers to look beyond political narratives and examine the historical context and lived realities of immigrant communities. Acknowledging this complexity helps foster informed dialogue and supports efforts towards more humane immigration policies in the future.