ICE Observer Movement Surges Across US After Minneapolis Shootings
In the wake of two fatal shootings involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, a remarkable grassroots movement has gained momentum across the United States. The deaths of residents Renee Good and Alex Pretti have galvanised thousands of Americans to join ICE observer groups, dedicated to documenting the activities of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in their communities.
Nationwide Training and Growing Participation
On a recent Monday evening, nearly 80,000 people participated in a video call to learn how to "observe ICE"—a non-violent, constitutionally protected practice of recording federal immigration agents' actions in public spaces. Participants hailed from Arkansas, Texas, Michigan, Florida, and numerous other states, with many expressing their commitment to seeing "ICE out" of their neighbourhoods and advocating for the agency's abolition.
Within twenty-four hours, an additional 200,000 viewers had watched the training session on YouTube, underscoring the rapidly expanding interest in this form of community monitoring. "The fact we're all here gives me hope we'll come out the other side," wrote one participant during the online event.
Minneapolis Residents Speak Out
Marjorie, a Minneapolis resident, addressed the call, highlighting the critical role of ordinary citizens in documenting ICE operations. "Two of my neighbors have been killed, but because of ordinary people documenting the actions of ICE, we're able to show the truth of what happened to Renee and Alex," she stated. "And we're also able to track what is happening in our community, and ensure that our neighbors are not being simply disappeared."
While ICE raids continue in the Twin Cities, Phoenix, southern California, and other regions, organisers report that the killings of Pretti and Good have inspired a significant influx of new members to local observer groups. Beyond documentation, a strong observer presence can deter agents from detaining individuals. Minneapolis City Council President Elliott Payne noted earlier this week: "Because we had so many patrols out, multiple abductions were prevented."
Legal Risks and Government Pushback
Despite escalating violence from agents, threats of harassment or detention, and federal officials labelling observers' work as "domestic terrorism" following the deaths, participants remain resolute. Witness testimony and footage have contradicted White House narratives, such as claims that Pretti's killing was an act of "self-defense." This underscores the vital importance of ICE observing, according to organisers.
Andrea, an ICE observer in Chicago using a pseudonym for safety, expressed her determination: "I am petrified, to be sure. But [I have] no intentions to back down or not show up. That just isn't an option."
Navigating Shifting Legal Landscapes
The federal government has intensified legal threats against observers, with White House officials claiming that recording ICE agents is "illegal" and equivalent to "doxing." After Good and Pretti's deaths, federal officials labelled both residents as "violent" and "terrorists," despite video evidence suggesting otherwise.
Footage captured by observers showed Good slowly turning her car away from agents, contradicting claims she charged at officers. Similarly, video indicated federal agents had already taken Pretti's permitted handgun before shooting him, countering assertions he sought to "massacre" immigration agents. The Department of Justice has since announced an investigation into Pretti's killing.
Attorney Lauren Regan of the Civil Liberties Defense Center noted a shift in risk levels for civil disobedience post-Trump's re-election. "When I'm doing 'Know Your Rights and Risks' training for activists and movement people, we are talking about a higher-risk moment in time," she explained.
Safety Adjustments and Community Organising
In response to increased dangers, organisers are reinforcing basic safety practices. During training sessions, staff role-play filming ICE officers, while viewers discuss safer methods—such as maintaining distance and using makeshift body cameras. Regan advises attendees to create "safety plans," share their locations with loved ones, and establish emergency contacts.
Fearing government tracking, many observers disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi at protests, anonymise online usernames on encrypted apps like Signal, and collaborate with legal aid groups to provide immediate assistance during raids.
Undeterred Commitment Amid Challenges
Despite federal backlash, organisers and volunteers report unwavering commitment. David Chung of ICE Out of New York described "electric" energy at a press conference following Good's killing, with hundreds seeking greater involvement. Omar Flores of the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression noted "several thousand" attendees at emergency actions, emphasising that "while people are taking more precautions, folks seem to be undeterred."
Marjorie's closing words on the training call resonated with many: "I know some of you think you're not qualified, or that you're waiting for someone to tell you how to do this right. But let me tell you that the person who is going to do that is you." This sentiment captures the grassroots spirit driving a movement determined to protect communities and uphold transparency in the face of escalating federal enforcement actions.
