As physicians and union members, we are outraged by the killing of Alex Pretti, a VA ICU nurse and union member, by federal agents in Minneapolis. His death highlights the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and policies that protect community safety. Healthcare workers dedicate their lives to healing, service, and protecting human dignity, yet ICE’s actions continue to endanger patients, caregivers, and entire communities. Violence and fear have no place in our neighborhoods or in our hospitals. 

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We reiterate our demand for the immediate withdrawal of federal paramilitary forces from U.S. cities and that elected officials oppose any increase in ICE funding that lacks meaningful accountability for abuses and protections for our communities. We demand the use of state and local government resources to protect all community members, not for federal immigration enforcement. ICE and the federal officials directing them must be held accountable.

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We stand in solidarity with Alex Pretti’s loved ones and the people of Minnesota, as we continue to call for accountability, transparency, and policies that prioritize community safety, public health, and respect for human life. 

For our members in the New York area, we encourage you to join NYSNA nurses and other allied healthcare workers at a vigil for Alex Pretti, which will be held at 423 East 23rd Street, VA NY Harbor Healthcare System, on Thursday January 29th from 5pm to 6pm. If you plan on attending, the organizers have asked that you bring candles or glowsticks if you can.