The Real News Podcast

“A hero”: Nurses, federal workers honor Alex Pretti

Feb 1, 2026
John Carey, an ICU RN at Washington Hospital Center and National Nurses United member, reflects on grieving Alex Pretti and organizing nurses to oppose ICE. He recounts the vigil, explains the union's call to abolish ICE, and discusses how nurses are mobilizing in communities. Short, powerful on-the-ground voices highlight empathy, outrage, and collective action.
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INSIGHT

Nurses Link Care To Political Action

  • National Nurses United frames Alex Preddy's death as a call to abolish ICE and defend community health.
  • The union connects nursing values of care and community to political action against ICE.
ANECDOTE

ICU Nurse Reflects On Personal Connection

  • John Carey, an ICU nurse, describes feeling he could have been Alex Preddy and how Preddy's bravery inspires action.
  • He says nurses must transform sadness into organizing to honor Alex's sacrifice.
ADVICE

Turn Grief Into Organized Action

  • Organize beyond clinical work by joining protests, vigils, and community defense efforts.
  • Use collective action to turn grief into political power and push for abolition of ICE.
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