Actions

Responding to ICE Activity

Notes from Upstander Training

from Unidos MN

Why is it important to witness?

• Accountabiity of ICE agants
• Potential to prevent deportation
• Share legal rights information for targeted people

Moral witness

• Solidarity
• Nothing happens in the dark

How to prepare

• Be ready to witness difficult moments
• It may be over by the time you get there
• Let someone know where you are going
• Don't worry about having too many responders

What to bring

• Notebook & pen/pencil
• Phone (password protected)
• Portable charger
• Water/snacks
• Know your rights information

What not to bring

• Children
• Pets
• Anything that is or looks like a weapon

How to respond

• Take notes/film ICE agents
• Do not interfere or aggravate — legal witnessing is not protesting
• Step back if asked, you don't have to stop filming
• Ask targeted person if they have a name or phone number you can contact on their behalf

What to document

• Names & badge numbers of ICE agents or other officers
• Name or phone numbers of those being detained
• Where they are taking people
• Warrant information
• What ICE agents do or say

Do not

• Give legal advice beyond basic rights
• Film people being detained other than during direct interaction with ICE
• Livestream
• Post on social media without consulting first with an immigrant rights organization

Observers have the right to

• Document, film, and observe ICE agents
• Share basic rights with people
• Ask for information from agents
• Refuse to answer questions
• Remember: don't be rude, don't fight, don't obstruct, stay out of the way

Key phrases

• "I want to remain silent"
• "I do not consent to a search"
• "Am I being detained or am I free to go?"
• "I would like to speak with my lawyer"

Immigrants have the right to:

• Remain silent
• Not open the door unless there is a search warrant signed by a judge"
• Refuse to sign anything
• Legal representation

Key phrases to share with targeted people

¡No abra la puerta!

Don't open the door!

¡Guarda Silencio!

Remain silent!

¡No firme nada!

Don't sign anything!

Hable con un abogado

Speak with a lawyer

Talking with the media

• You don't have to — it is ok to say no
• Think about what you want to say ahead of time
• Lead with values, such as freedom, family, love, naming that they're shared across races, classes, and backgrounds

Media: You could say ...

Remember — lead with shared values

• "I am here because I believe in keeping our families and communities whole"
• "I am here because every family deserves the opportunity to thrive, without fear of being torn apart"
• "People have always moved in search of safety and a better life — it is part of our shared history"
• "Politicians scapegoat aspiring citizens to divide us and distract from the real issues we face"
• "I want my tax dollars to build up our communities, not tear families apart"
• "Deportations don't make us safer, they hurt our neighbors, our economy, and our future"
• "When our communities live in fear, we all lose. We need solutions that bring us together, not policies that cause harm."

Hotline

Responding to a call — simple codes

Signs of Solidarity

Canvassing Toolkit

from NO Kings

"When businesses and communities stand together, we send a powerful message: immigrants are essential and welcome here. This guide will help you organize locally, engage business owners, and build visible, united resistance.

"Download our printable signs — one designates a private area for employees that ICE cannot enter without a judicial warrant, and others show public solidarity with immigrants. Print them, bring them to businesses, and help send a clear message that our community stands together against fear and intimidation."

Use the following link to download your choice of high-resolution posters.