Seattle, WA, July 19 —The Seattle and Tacoma Latino Chambers of Commerce in Washington State demand that the federal government acknowledge its responsibility and seek justice for the murder of Hispanic entrepreneur Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, father of three sons, who was needlessly killed by armed forces of ICE.

We stand in solidarity with the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, representing over 260 independent chambers nationwide, all affected by this lawless act.

This is not the first time that ICE has killed innocent civilians, yet it continues to do so due to a lack of governance and leadership from the federal government. Our safety as US citizens is at risk today, not only for Latinos but for all citizens, who could be killed by this irresponsible, arbitrary use of force by federal authorities.

As US citizens, we should all be tired of a system that operates above the rule of law without accountability.

The murder of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo will forever be seen as an act committed by US federal forces against its own people. This is the legacy that the current government will leave, even if such horrendous actions go unpunished.

Latinos are the fastest-growing workforce in the United States. We built the skyscrapers that define modern America, we harvest and bring food to the tables of Americans, and we are the backbone of the hospitality industry. Yet, our immigration status and population are used as pawns for demagogic purposes instead of being recognized for all we contribute to the country.

We are all brothers and sisters in this country, regardless of the racism and hateful doctrines that try to divide us.

Marcos Wanless
President and Founder
Seattle and Tacoma Latino Metropolitan Chambers of Commerce