09/28/2025
>>>NAACP Visits Dr. Ian Roberts Over the Weekend and Shares His Message; NAACP Also Continues to Urge Due Process in His ICE Detention
The Iowa-Nebraska NAACP continues to be deeply concerned over the detention of Dr. Ian Roberts, Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. Dr. Roberts garnered respect as an educator, inspiring administrator, and changemaker whose leadership has empowered countless students, staff, and community members.
Since his detention, the NAACP has been actively engaged at local, state, and national levels, and in communication with Dr. Roberts’ attorney. We urge caution against rushing to conclusions and continue calling for transparency and full due process.
>>>Commitment to Due Process and Fairness
Due process is not a privilege but a constitutional right that applies to all. The treatment of Dr. Roberts speaks to the moral compass of a nation that claims justice and fairness as its foundation and we call on federal, state, and local authorities to guarantee full due process and dignity for Dr. Roberts and for anyone in similar circumstances.
We all must remain vigilant in protecting these rights. For guidance, the NAACP encourages individuals to review its Immigrants “Know Your Rights Guide” at https://naacp.org/resources/know-your-rights-immigration.
>>>Dr. Roberts’ Message to the Community
NAACP leadership visited Dr. Roberts on Saturday. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from individuals and organizations nationwide and reaffirmed his commitment to education and ensuring students thrive. Dr. Roberts shared that he is in good spirits and that his faith in God will sustain him.
At his request, the NAACP is assisting his wife during this period, and she, too, has expressed gratitude for the nationwide support.
“Our prayers are with Dr. Roberts, his family, and our community,” said Betty Andrews, NAACP Iowa-Nebraska State Area President and National NAACP Board Member. “We will continue to monitor this situation closely and stand firmly in contending for justice.”
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