Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity Condemns Trump Administration's Handover of Medicaid Data to ICE, Calls for Immediate Halt and Protection of Privacy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 18, 2025
Media Contact:
Mandesha Thornton
Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity Condemns Trump Administration's Handover of Medicaid Data to ICE, Calls for Immediate Halt and Protection of Privacy
Jackson, Mississippi – Today the Immigrant Alliance for Justice & Equity (IAJE), a leading advocate for the rights and dignity of immigrants, issued a statement regarding the alarming revelation that the Trump administration has transferred sensitive Medicaid enrollee data, including personal addresses, to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
"This unprecedented and deeply disturbing action by the Trump administration is a gross violation of privacy and a direct attack on the health and safety of immigrant communities," said Lorena Quiroz, Executive Director of the Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity. "Weaponizing sensitive healthcare data to facilitate immigration enforcement will undoubtedly create a chilling effect, deterring countless individuals, including children, from seeking essential medical care. This move not only undermines public health, but also erodes trust in government institutions and puts vulnerable families at immense risk of targeted raids and deportations."
The Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity emphasizes that privacy rights, access to healthcare, and protection from targeted enforcement, must be the cornerstones of our nation's policies. The organization calls upon the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Congress to:
Immediately cease all data sharing agreements between federal health agencies and immigration enforcement, and ensure the destruction of any already shared sensitive data.
Launch thorough and independent investigations into the legality and ethical implications of this data transfer, holding accountable those responsible for this egregious breach of trust.
Enact robust legislative protections to safeguard the sensitive personal information of all individuals, ensuring that healthcare data can never be used for immigration enforcement purposes.
Reaffirm and guarantee that all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, can access necessary healthcare services without fear of reprisal or deportation.
"We will not stand idly by while the health and safety of immigrant families are jeopardized by such cruel and misguided policies," Lorena Quiroz added. "IAJE will continue to advocate tirelessly for the privacy and well-being of all individuals in our communities. We urge all stakeholders, including healthcare providers, privacy advocates, and concerned citizens, to join us in demanding an immediate end to this dangerous practice and a commitment to humane and just immigration policies. The time for meaningful change is now."
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About Immigrant Justice and Equity (I.A.J.E.): I.A.J.E. is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of immigrants and working class communities in Mississippi. Through grassroots organizing, advocacy, and community education, we strive to create a society where all immigrants are treated with dignity and respect.
