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ICE Safety

By Alex Rahe

The GSA is organizing a Know Your Rights presentation at our first open general meeting on October 20th from 2:30–4pm that will include in-depth knowledge on how to help keep everyone safe. This meeting is intended to be the first gathering of those that have signed or want to sign union cards and want their voices heard on the direction of the union. The meeting room is still to be determined. However, we will include a virtual option to help ensure safety. You will have the opportunity to ask questions from an National Educator’s Association (NEA) lawyer. Circumstances like these is why we all must work together. We can make a difference if we all stand together and help each other.

With reports of ICE activity in the DeKalb area, it may be prudent for many to be informed on how to handle ICE interactions. This is not legal advice.

Documents

  • For those with F-1 or J-1 visas, keep your I-94 form on you at all times
  • For permanent residents, keep your I-551 (green card) on you at all times

Digital Safety

  • Use passcodes instead of biometric (fingerprint/faceprint) to lock your phone
  • Delete political posts as they have been used to justify the cancellation of visas

Safe Zones

  • The 4th Amendment protects against the government entering private spaces without a Judicial Warrant
  • ICE generally works on Administrative Warrants. These are not the same. They cannot enter a private space with consent or a warrant signed by a judge (Judicial Warrant). Keep in mind they may attempt to do so anyway.
  • Administrative Warrants do not give them the right to search you. Do not give consent for a search.
  • Private spaces can include administrative offices, cars, student dorms, or other restricted areas.
  • Read NIU’s Policy on Private Spaces.

How to be an ally

We can all work together to help those most vulnerable.

  • Let your vulnerable friends know where ICE can be found if spotted.
  • Put up signs in shared graduate offices that say Restricted Access designating your shared office a Safe Zone
  • Work together so vulnerable friends are not left to walk alone in public spaces.
  • Shut and Lock doors to classrooms where people may be vulnerable