ACLU of Kansas is launching Opportunity Forward, a new campaign focused on building a Kansas where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. The campaign brings together three priorities that are central to our vision for a more just and equitable state:

1. Preserving in-state tuition
2. Limiting 287(g) agreements
3. Preventing issuance of ICE detainers

One piece of this work is confronting the growing role of local law enforcement in federal immigration enforcement. Across Kansas, local agencies have entered into agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, allowing participating officers to perform certain immigration-enforcement functions. From a legal perspective, this raises important questions about the role of state and local government in federal immigration enforcement and about what happens when enforcement reaches into our communities. Section 287(g) agreements can have significant consequences for people who interact with local law enforcement, including increasing the risk that routine encounters with police can become entangled with the federal immigration system.

That’s why we’re proud that Opportunity Forward includes a focus on challenging and pushing back against 287(g) expansion in Kansas. We believe Kansans should be able to interact with their local government and law enforcement without unnecessary fear that a routine encounter could lead to immigration consequences.

And this work isn’t just happening in courtrooms. If you want to take action against 287(g) in Kansas, join us at our upcoming Unwarranted event. It is an opportunity to learn more about what 287(g) means for Kansas communities, connect with others doing this work, and find ways to get involved.

Opportunity Forward is about more than any single campaign or policy. It’s about creating a Kansas where everyone can move forward with dignity, safety, and opportunity.