NASW Statement on the Shooting Death of Alex Pretti by Federal Agents

In the wake of the shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis on January 24, NASW CEO Anthony Estreet, Ph.D., MBA, LCSW-C, issued this statement.

Across the United States communities are experiencing harm. Families afraid to leave their homes.Children are being impacted at school and neighborhoods are being destabilized by fear. This is not safety or justice and it has no place in our democracy.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has long warned against fear-based policies that rely on force instead of care.Force militarized responses being carried out by ICE result in significant trauma to the communities we serve.

Social Workers Educate!

Use your voice, training, and platform to share accurate information about how harmful immigration enforcement impacts families, communities, and essential services.NASW calls on policymakers and federal agencies to immediately halt harmful enforcement practices and commit to approaches that prioritize safety and humanity. Fear, intimidation, and murder have no place in our democracy.

On Saturday, Jan. 24^th, another U.S. citizen was killed by federal immigration enforcement. This wasn't an isolated incident and reflects a dangerous pattern that threatens community safety and public trust.

As social workers, our ethical responsibility is clear. We must:

• Protect human dignity
• Demand transparence and accountability
• Advocate for systems rooted in care, not intimidation

Silence is not neutral.

Social Workers Activate! Act Now!

Support community-based organizations, mutual aid, and mental health resources that protect and heal our neighborhoods.

Fear, intimidation, and murder have no place in our democracy.

Please contact Congress at (202) 224-3121 and demand transparency, accountability, and an end to fear-based enforcement practices. Amplify YOUR social work voice.