US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s (AOC) office hosted a webinar on Wednesday explaining the tactics Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) authorities have been using in New York to arrest illegal immigrants in an apparent effort to help them avoid deportation.
Her campaign aims to empower migrants to navigate ICE raids and protect themselves from deportation, reports New York Post.
In a recent webinar hosted by her office, experts highlighted the tactics used by ICE in New York, such as early morning raids and detentions in public spaces. Ocasio-Cortez shared a comprehensive "Know Your Rights" guide on social media, available in both English and Spanish. The guide outlines crucial steps for migrants, including not opening doors without a judicial warrant, remaining silent if questioned, and asking ICE agents to leave if they cannot produce proper documentation.
One of the key messages in the guide is: “Do not open your door.” It emphasises that everyone in the US, regardless of immigration status, has constitutional rights.
The guide also addresses ICE's frequent use of intimidation and deception, often exploiting a lack of awareness among migrants.
Genia Blaser, a lawyer with the Immigrant Defense Project, criticized ICE raids as politically motivated, stating, “ICE raids are political tactics, and they're often intended to create fear.” Blaser added that ICE frequently employs rhetoric to criminalize migrants and justify aggressive actions.
Blaser noted that ICE agents in New York rarely obtain judicial warrants and often rely on tricks or pressure tactics to gain entry into private spaces. This underscores the importance of being informed about one’s rights to avoid illegal searches and detentions.
In addition to Ocasio-Cortez’s initiative, organisations like the Immigrant Defense Project provide resources to educate migrants and employers on interacting with ICE. These include flyers, posters, and booklets detailing rights and precautions. Employers are also encouraged to prepare for potential ICE audits by conducting internal reviews, training staff, and establishing clear protocols.
