Councilor Etel Haxhiaj Defends Protest, Vows to Keep Serving Amid Legal Fight

By Hank Stolz | Radio Worcester

Photo-Etel for Worcester Facebook Page (screenshot from posted video)

WORCESTER, MASS- Worcester District 5 City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj is vowing to continue serving her constituents while fighting charges stemming from her involvement in a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Eureka Street earlier this year.

Speaking with Talk of the Commonwealth host Hank Stolz, Haxhiaj said she entered a plea of not guilty and remains “resolute and unapologetic” in defending her actions. “I acted as a mother, and as an elected official who saw three women—one of whom was a very young person and an infant—who needed my support,” Haxhiaj said. “I did what I would hope any district councilor would do in an inhumane situation.”

ICE Protest, Police Interaction, and the Legal Case

The charges—alleging physical contact with a police officer during the protest—have drawn sharp political and public reaction. While Haxhiaj declined to speak about the specifics of the case due to the ongoing legal process, she emphasized the broader importance of protesting against policies that affect immigrant families. “The overwhelming number of Worcester residents and Americans are opposed to armed, masked men snatching people off our streets,” she said on the courthouse steps. “I will always stand by our immigrant brothers and sisters.” Haxhiaj’s attorney has filed a motion to dismiss the charges, which a judge will review in September. In the meantime, she says her focus remains on her constituents.

On Her Relationship with Police and Chief Saucier

While some in the community have speculated that the charges are politically motivated or the result of tension between Haxhiaj and the police union, she denied any personal animosity. “The police union leaders have never reached out to me. I’ve worked with many officers who do great work,” she said. “None of the rhetoric or politicization helps our community. It doesn’t help the officers trying to build trust either.” Haxhiaj praised Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier for his willingness to meet with the community and consider reforms in the department’s protest response training. “There are steps being taken to improve communication and retrain officers,” she said. “That helps build trust and avoid harmful incidents.”

Continuing District 5 Work Despite Legal Stress

Despite the court case and public scrutiny, Haxhiaj insists she has maintained a full schedule of community engagement. “I answer emails, calls, tour neighborhoods, and meet with residents,” she said. “We’re installing speed bumps on Eureka Street and hosting a family fun event at Binienda Beach. I love my job.” She confirmed that her re-election campaign is ongoing, albeit slightly slowed by legal preparations.

“I remain 100% committed to my constituents. That’s what I was elected to do, and that’s what I’m asking voters to consider for me this November.”