Guidance on CAN's ICE Safety Plan

[Derrick Miller]

Hi CAN Staff,

You have probably seen increased reports of ICE activity in many communities. We want to share some important information and reaffirm that your safety is our top priority. If you do not feel comfortable coming into work due to safety concerns, please talk with your supervisor. Washtenaw County has passed a policy stating that ICE may not enter county buildings without a valid judicial warrant. Similarly, ICE or other federal agents may not enter private or staff-only areas of our buildings without a warrant signed by a judge. If agents are present outside, they may be in public spaces, but that does not give them permission to enter our facilities. We should practice keeping our access points locked until further notice. CAN site directors have received more specific ICE safety plan directions (covers staff and clients) so please feel free to reach out to them if you have any questions regarding other ICE safety concerns. 

If ICE is seen at or around any CAN site, do not open secure areas, and call me immediately (734.747.2084). If community members come inside seeking safety, welcome them in; however, do not automatically move everyone indoors, as that can unintentionally signal agents to remain or return. This may be relevant for sites like Bryant due to the line during food distributions. If you are personally approached, you have the right to decline to answer questions beyond basic identification and to ask for an attorney.

If you want to take civic action, resources like 5calls.org make it easy to contact your senators and representatives. Most importantly, know that CAN is here for you. If you are feeling anxious, unsure, or need support of any kind, please reach out to me or your supervisor. 

Thank you.

Derric

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Derrick Miller, he/him/his

Executive Director

Community Action Network 

PO Box 130076, Ann Arbor, MI 48113

dmi...@canwashtenaw.org | 734.994.2985 ext. 101

www.canwashtenaw.org | www.can-academy.org | www.canfamilies.org

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