OPSR Statement on ICE Helicopters
(Portland, OR) - Ever since President Trump chose to unleash ICE and other federal law enforcement on Portland, Oregon, many residents have raised their voices regarding the increase in helicopter activity and how it is negatively affecting their lives. They are right.
The list of health effects from helicopters circling overhead is significant. Residents, especially those living around the South Waterfront, are having trouble sleeping at night due the constant sound hovering over their homes. In addition to the noise pollution, when the helicopters are flying low, the lights have also become an impediment to getting a proper night’s sleep. Not getting sufficient sleep can play a role in developing heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and a weakened immune system, among other serious health problems.
In addition, the effects on the mental health of our neighbors being terrorized by ICE helicopters flying overhead cannot be overstated. These actions do not make us feel safe or less stressed. They are having the opposite effect. Young children cannot understand what is happening and why. Students may stay home from school and adults from work in fear. Others may divorce themselves from public life entirely. Or they may move away from home or school to avoid harmful noise pollution. Low-income individuals and families who live in subsidized housing have fewer options to escape this noise. The results for many can be a feeling of living in a constant state of anxiety or developing PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
It should be noted that the adverse impacts of helicopters are likely exacerbated by exposure to noise generated by flash bang grenades, exposure to tear gas (powder) and exposure to pepper spray.
As an organization comprised of healthcare professionals and advocates, we stand with our neighbors in calling for answers from our local and state officials as to why and how this policy is allowed to continue. As the federal government creates conditions that will most likely result in increased health problems for many of us, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act and other healthcare subsidies are having their funding reduced or eliminated entirely. During the government shutdown, the administration also seeks to cut access to SNAP (Supplemental Food Assistance Program). These and other actions add validity to the notion that we are faced with an administration that has an utter disregard for human life. We will never be silent in the face of this repression and threats to the health of our community. We join the chorus of others in saying: Basta!
For information and citations related to the adverse health outcomes associated with noise pollution: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3915267/
For more information related to adverse health outcomes associated with flash bang grenades: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2013-0124-3208.pdf
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