What are your rights if you see #ICE activity? Recommended #safety practices for bystanders
Do not disclose anyone’s legal status, even if asked by ICE. You do not have to answer questions about others, you are only required to present your own paperwork when asked by an immigration officer. If asked about another person’s status, say 'I don’t know' or 'I can’t help.” You also have the legal right to say nothing.'
By Karlee Van De Venter and Rosemary Montalvo, February 06, 2025
"Since Trump’s inauguration, rumors and fears have circulated about ICE presence and mass deportations. Posts are circulating across social media platforms, including Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter, reporting ICE sightings. But posting unconfirmed information can do more harm than good, as it can spread mass panic in already uncertain times. There are recommendations available for bystanders from many organizations, including the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (#WAISN), on what to say and do when you see immigration officials working in your local community.
What if I see ICE?
"If you see ICE activity in your area, be deliberate in your response. WAISN, the largest immigrant-led coalition in Washington state, has recommendations for bystanders who want to support their local immigrant community amid fears of mass deportation.
"When sharing information, WAISN says to carefully evaluate to be sure it’s more helpful than harmful.
What are your rights if you see ICE?
"Everyone has basic guaranteed rights in the U.S., regardless of their legal status. With threats of mass deportation, households with immigrants are creating emergency deportation plans and preparing for the worst case scenarios.
You have the right to record activity and interactions with immigration and law enforcement officers, so long as you do not impede them from doing their job.
"If you are asked to back up, WAISN suggests taking a step back and repeating 'I am exercising my right to record and document.' If officers get too close to you, state that you have stepped back and repeat you are exercising your right to record. You want to remain calm, but speak firmly.
"Record the entirety of the incident, and narrate your experience. State the date and time while recording. If you’re going to post online, make sure your information is backed up with evidence. Speak with a first-person witness if you can. Take notes of what you see. How many officers are there? What are they wearing? What cars are involved, are they marked? What agency? Are people being questioned, or detained? If you feel safe, legally you can ask an officer why they are there.
Additionally, be sure to take note of:
- Officer identification - agency, badge, numbers, uniform, name
- The specific address, if possible
- Language used by the officers, especially hate speech or identity speech and anything false or unproven
- Cars - note the license plates and agency if marked
- Any physical force
Any post you make should include:
- Date and time of reported activity
Street name or specific description of the area
- Pictures or videos with timestamps
"Once you begin documenting activity, WAISN recommends disabling thumbprint or facial recognition protection on your phone. Using a passcode better protects your evidence and information."
In Washington state, you can call the Deportation Defense Hotline at 1-844-724-3737 if you see potential ICE activity."
Read more:
https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/state/washington/article299260449.html
Archived version:
https://archive.ph/X7pEN
#ICERaids #ResistICE #ImmigrantRights #KnowYourRights