These letters were written by Brandi Straub, a resident of Bozeman, to her two daughters following a recent incident involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that took place in their community. Brandi’s reflections were featured in an article by the Daily Montanan, which has granted her permission to share them.
Reflections on a Monday in Bozeman
July 4, 2026
“We hold these truths to be self-evident: All men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” –Declaration of Independence.
Dear M—,
It started out like any other Monday at Camp Equinox, filled with creativity, laughter, and camaraderie. As we drove, I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of disappointment at the thought of having to camp indoors due to the heavy rain. However, I was grateful for the joy we experienced, blissfully unaware of the chaos unfolding nearby. After dropping you off, I parked close to the park to answer a phone call and send a quick email. Just ten minutes later, while driving home, I witnessed a chaotic scene that forced me to slam on the brakes.
A pickup truck careened down the parkway, crashing into a mailbox before coming to a halt in front of me — all without a driver behind the wheel. Moments later, two men jumped out and sprinted down the street while armed ICE agents in casual attire began pursuing them. It was surreal. As one agent circled my van, he pointed his weapon at me through the passenger window, and I felt an overwhelming rush of fear wash over me.
Paralyzed by shock, I struggled to process what was happening. I grappled with anger over the fear and guilt I felt for not turning back to witness the outcome. But you and I often talk about making the next best decision, so I chose to drive around the crashed truck and exit the area for my own safety. My immediate concern turned to you — I couldn’t bear the thought of you and your friends being caught in the chaos just blocks away. I hurriedly reached out to the Camp Equinox number to alert the camp director, and although he wasn’t initially notified, he was thankful to be informed about the situation given the storm. My call to 911 was disheartening; local law enforcement couldn’t intervene. I felt helpless against the unprofessionalism and chaos that had erupted in our neighborhood.
Though you and I were safe, the reality is that many in our community are not. The disregard for safety procedures was alarming, but even more heartbreaking was considering the families of the individuals involved, who went about their day as usual. I returned home, took care of the dog, and resumed my routine. When you came back from camp, happy despite the rain, I embraced you tightly; we had dinner with friends that evening. Yet, beneath my attempts to carry on with the day, I was grappling with emotions that should never have to feel normal.
As Americans, we are better than what this incident reflects, and I am deeply saddened that this has become an all-too-familiar reality for our community. This should never be “just another Monday.” I am committed to making responsible choices that ensure a future where you and your children can fully enjoy the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness envisioned by our ancestors.
Happy Independence Day! I love you beyond measure,
mother
A Message of Understanding
Dear A—,
Your intuitive nature is something I greatly appreciate. I understand you were late coming home this morning, and I regret that I couldn’t answer your call. When you arrived, I sensed something was off and instinctively asked if you were okay. Despite my weariness, I managed a smile as I hugged you. Once you returned to your summer chores, I retreated to the shower to cry without you noticing. I needed that moment to compose myself.
It has taken me several days to articulate the fear and sadness I experienced during the ICE incident. I feel the weight of my emotions and worry about how sharing them may resonate with others around me. My goal is to model kindness, courage, and the conviction that truth can usher in change. Remaining silent only perpetuates injustice.
The recent presence of ICE in our community has left many, including myself, in disbelief at the alarming, chaotic actions of these federal agents. It troubles me deeply that our tax dollars are being used for such activities instead of vital initiatives in healthcare, education, and community enrichment. I pledge to continue advocating for truth and strive toward a brighter future for all of us.
Two and a half centuries ago, the Declaration of Independence established principles designed to enhance the security and welfare of our nation. My hope for you is that you will one day witness a society that genuinely values the safety and well-being of all individuals, affirming that we are indeed created equal.
Happy Independence Day! I love you beyond measure,
mother
