New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has released a video guide on immigrant rights during encounters with ICE, emphasizing his commitment to protect the city’s immigrant communities.
New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has taken a significant step in advocating for immigrant rights by releasing a comprehensive video guide aimed at informing residents about their rights during encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This initiative follows a recent attempted ICE raid in Manhattan, highlighting the urgency of the situation as immigration enforcement practices come under renewed scrutiny.
In the video, Mamdani pledges to protect the rights of the city’s more than 3 million immigrants, asserting that his administration will stand firm against federal actions that threaten these communities. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared, informed, and confident when asserting legal rights during interactions with ICE.
Opening the video, Mamdani recalls the recent ICE raid, stating, “As mayor, I’ll protect the rights of every single New Yorker, and that includes the more than 3 million immigrants who call this city their home. But we can all stand up to ICE if you know your rights.”
He provides essential guidance for immigrants who may find themselves facing ICE agents. Mamdani clarifies that ICE cannot enter private spaces, such as homes, schools, or workplaces, without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. “If ICE does not have a judicial warrant signed by a judge, you have the right to say, ‘I do not consent to entry’ and the right to keep your door closed,” he advises.
Addressing the tactics used by ICE, Mamdani warns that agents may present paperwork claiming authority to make an arrest, but he stresses that such claims can be misleading. “ICE is legally allowed to lie to you, but you have the right to remain silent,” he states. He encourages individuals to ask repeatedly, “Am I free to go?” if they are being detained.
Additionally, Mamdani informs viewers that they are legally permitted to film ICE agents as long as they do not interfere with an arrest. He underscores the importance of remaining calm during any interaction with law enforcement, advising against impeding investigations, resisting arrest, or fleeing the scene.
Concluding the video, Mamdani reaffirms New Yorkers’ constitutional right to protest. “New Yorkers have a constitutional right to protest, and when I’m mayor, we will protect that right,” he declares. “New York will always welcome immigrants, and I will fight each and every day to protect, support, and celebrate our immigrant brothers and sisters.”
This video release comes shortly after Mamdani’s meeting with President Donald Trump, where they found common ground on issues related to affordability and improving conditions in New York. Despite this dialogue, Mamdani has reiterated New York’s status as a sanctuary city, emphasizing the city’s commitment to its policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
During a speech at a church in the Bronx, Mamdani stated, “I shared with the president directly that New Yorkers want to follow the laws of our city, and the laws of our city say that, in our sanctuary city policies, city government can be in touch with the federal government on around 170 serious crimes.” He expressed concern over the broader implications of immigration enforcement, particularly regarding individuals being arrested or deported for minor infractions, such as attending a court appearance.
As he prepares to take office, Mamdani remains focused on ensuring the safety and rights of immigrants in New York City, vowing to protect those who call the city home.
According to Fox News, Mamdani’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to uphold the rights of immigrants amidst ongoing challenges in immigration policy.