Michigan: Houghton County parade ICE float sparks outrage, calls for commissioner's resignation

HOUGHTON, Mich. (WBUP / WJMN) — A tense Houghton County Board of Commissioners meeting drew a packed house Tuesday as residents and political leaders clashed over a controversial Fourth of July float in the Traprock Valley parade.

The float, which depicted mock U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement signs alongside individuals wearing sombreros and ponchos, sparked outrage on social media and prompted calls for the resignation of District 2 Commissioner Joel Keranen.

During his commissioner report, Keranen defended the parade and his position, stating he had no involvement in the float's creation and would not censor it.

"I did not build this float, nor did I have anything to do with it," Keranen said. "Someone's free speech doesn't end where the next person's feelings begin. It begins and ends with our Constitution."

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Some residents who live near Traprock Valley expressed dismay over the display, arguing it crossed the line from political satire to targeted hostility.

"Basically, we have ICE, and you look at some of the statistics, like more than 50 people have been killed in ICE detention facilities," said a Schoolcraft Township resident. "These people are not all guilty to being held until they actually have an opportunity to go to court. We have children in these ICE detention facilities. I am concerned because we're vilifying people of color. I don't think it's easy to draw lines and have floats like that are just hurtful." ..................(more)

https://www.myupnow.com/news/houghton-county-parade-float-sparks-outrage-calls-for-commissioners-resignation/article_ee766444-fcb9-40cf-b2b5-0a4c1361f600.html