Today, Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) issued the following statement in response to the announcement that Avelo Airlines, a company with a significant and growing presence in Connecticut, will begin operating deportation flights for the federal government out of Arizona this May:
“When issues of humane and ethical principles compete with the profit motive and financial incentives, the principles, unfortunately, frequently lose. Avelo Airlines’ decision to contract with the federal government to operate deportation flights is a disgraceful capitulation to profit over humane concerns. It is particularly galling that a company presenting one face in Connecticut as a partner in economic development, community engagement, and opportunity, is simultaneously presenting another in Arizona where it will now serve as a willing participant in a deportation system that often strips individuals of their dignity, security, and hope.
“In Connecticut we welcome immigrants, support due process, and advocate for enlightened policies. It is deeply disturbing that a company operating out of our own airports would exploit federal contracts to carry out the cruel logistics of mass deportations while maintaining a sanitized public image here at home. In fact, Avelo’s pursuit of this contract with the federal government blatantly violates the spirit of Connecticut’s own TRUST Act.
“This moment reflects a broader, troubling trend in American institutions. We have seen major universities compromise their commitments to academic freedom under pressure, and some of the nation’s most prestigious law firms retreat from defending civil rights and constitutional liberties when faced with political backlash or financial threat. Avelo’s actions follow that same pattern—caving to government dollars at the expense of human rights.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kevin Coughlin | kevin.coughlin@cga.ct.gov | 203-710-0193
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