By Bob Katzen
“Many of those taken into custody are long-standing members of our communities—parents, caregivers and workers whose sudden detention leaves their families in crisis. This has had far-reaching consequences for their children, families our communities and the state of Massachusetts.”
— Gov. Healey demanding that ICE provide, in one week, complete and accurate information on every person arrested in Massachusetts since January 2025, including the identity of each individual, the legal basis for each arrest, case status, detention location, court jurisdiction and upcoming hearing dates.
“The Mass Cultural Council is proud to support our performing arts centers and the communities they serve. These organizations are vibrant cultural anchors and powerful economic drivers. This funding ensures they can continue to attract exceptional touring performances, expand access to high-quality arts experiences and strengthen local economies across Massachusetts.”
—David Slatery, Acting Executive Director, Mass Cultural Council, announcing that 51 nonprofit and municipal performing arts centers across the state will receive a total of $3.5 million through the fiscal year 2026 Gaming Mitigation Fund Grant Program.
“For too long, Kristi Noem has overseen a reckless, lawless and dangerous ICE agency under the guise of public safety. Accountability starts at the top, and Noem’s leadership – or lack thereof – has enabled agents to shoot civilians, hide behind masks and operate as though the law doesn’t apply to them. But make no mistake: putting Sen. Mullin, who has defended some of ICE’s most egregious conduct and criticized birthright citizenship, in charge raises serious concerns. My office will be watching closely, and if federal agents operate unlawfully in Massachusetts, we will hold them accountable.”
—Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell on President Trump’s decision to remove Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem from her position and nominate Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin to replace her.
“Addressing the childcare challenge requires us to turn over every rock and look across benefits, workforce pathways and business supports. By working across state government, we’re delivering practical solutions that help providers grow, retain educators and serve families in every community.”
—Acting Education Secretary and Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw, on the release of the progress report and outlook for the third year from Gov. Healey’s Inter-Agency Early Education and Child Care Task Force, highlighting significant progress taken to expand accessible, affordable and equitable high-quality childcare across Massachusetts.