WHYY reports that a coalition of organizations is urging Delaware Gov. John Carney to act on a “life or death” issue facing immigrants working in Sussex County poultry plants.
The advocacy and community groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Delaware Hispanic Commission, demanded that the state “take immediate action to protect, serve, and provide relief for immigrants” impacted by the virus.
The coalition sent the letter to Gov. John Carney outlining its concerns and called the situation “a matter of life or death.”
Immigrant workers represent a sizable percentage of employees in Sussex County poultry processing plants, while holding positions in health care, grocery stores and areas where exposure to the virus is more likely.
The coalition’s requests include having Delaware provide a disaster relief front for immigrants, included undocumented individuals.
The concern is that immigrants, both documented and undocumented, could be afraid to come forward, fearing firing or deportation or both.
Overall Sussex County’s 234,000 residents comprise 24 percent of Delaware’s population but its 1,055 cases as of Monday are 38 percent of the state’s total, WHYY reported.
