A leading immigrant rights group in Iowa is standing firm against state demands for sensitive data. Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice (Iowa MMJ) has refused to hand over internal records to a state lawmaker. The request included personal information about clients, donors, and members.
State Representative Charley Thomson, a Republican and chair of the House Oversight Committee, issued the demand on February 24. The letter requested extensive documentation from Iowa MMJ, a nonprofit legal and advocacy group. According to Iowa MMJ, the request crossed legal and ethical lines.
In response, Iowa MMJ’s attorney firmly rejected the directive. In a written reply dated April 18, the attorney called the request unlawful. The organization described it as an abuse of authority and a threat to the rights of immigrant communities.
Erica Johnson, the group’s executive director, informed supporters about the situation last week. In her message, she encouraged unity and resistance. “We will not be intimidated,” Johnson wrote. “We must defend the rights of immigrant communities together.”
The nonprofit formed in 2020 and provides legal support across several Iowa cities. It serves thousands of people each year through clinics in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Storm Lake.
Representative Elinor Levin, the committee’s ranking Democrat, also criticized the inquiry. She called it “burdensome” and “politically motivated.” Levin added that around 10 institutions received similar letters, but only Iowa MMJ serves migrants directly.
“This isn’t our top priority,” she said. “We should focus on supporting vulnerable populations, not targeting them.”
The nonprofit also has a lawsuit pending against Iowa’s recent immigration law. That law criminalizes undocumented presence in the state. The organization argues it harms the rights of immigrant communities.
Iowa MMJ reported over $900,000 in contributions in 2022. About 7% came from a victims assistance grant administered by the state. The group confirms it complies with all legal reporting standards.
Johnson questioned the legality of the committee’s actions. “What gives them jurisdiction over a private nonprofit?” she asked. “There’s no clear basis for this demand.”
Despite pressure, Iowa MMJ plans to keep providing services and defending Iowa’s immigrant families.
For more political updates, visit DC Brief.
