It has been confirmed that ICE is coming to the Bay Area and is currently mobilizing 100 agents to conduct operations within and around San Francisco, including East Bay cities. We have known that it was only a matter of time before we were faced with this challenge here. The time is now, and we want to make sure that our residents are prepared and feel empowered.
Berkeley is a proud Sanctuary City that stands firm in protecting all of our residents and letting them know they are safe, regardless of their immigration status. Our immigrant community should not live in fear. No City of Berkeley department, agency, commission, officer, or employee can deny access to any city services or benefits to residents on the basis of their immigration status. Everyone should feel safe and trusted when interacting with the Berkeley Police Department (BPD) and other city departments; the City will not assist ICE in immigration enforcement.
As the home of the Free Speech Movement, Berkeley will always support residents’ First Amendment rights of freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. However, please be aware that the federal government has already distorted local protests elsewhere to justify more extreme federal measures such as the deployment of the National Guard. We must keep this in mind as we urge everyone to remain peaceful.
While Berkeley is a Sanctuary City, we cannot prevent action by ICE or other entities the President deploys to assist in immigration enforcement. For these reasons, it is critical that our residents know their rights:
If officers ask you questions, you have the right to say: “I choose to remain silent.”
You have the right to consult with an attorney before answering any questions or signing any documents.
If you have valid U.S. immigration documents, carry them with you. Never carry false documents or lie about your immigration status.
No law enforcement officer can enter your home without your permission unless that officer has a warrant signed by a judge. An administrative warrant from the Department of Homeland Security does not give officers the right to enter your home against your will.
For those who may be directly impacted by increased ICE presence, you are encouraged to take safety precautions this weekend. If you are able to stay home, please do so. Otherwise, please be on alert. Carry a red card at all times and any legal documents including U.S. passports, green cards, work permits, and receipts of your legal application or approval notices. Please memorize an emergency contact’s phone number and speak with your family to make a plan if you are separated.
If you think you are witnessing an ICE action in Berkeley or Alameda County, please contact the Alameda County Immigration Legal and Education Partnership (ACILEP) for verification: (510) 241-4011. To avoid spreading fear, please do not share information that has not been verified with ACILEP. If you do report to ACILEP, be sure to share as much information as possible, including a physical description of individuals or vehicles, etc.
We all need to take care of each other in this moment. If you know people in your community who may be impacted, please reach out to them and see if they need support staying home. Offer them rides to school or work or grocery runs.
At this point, we believe it is safe for children to attend school. BUSD and other local districts all have strong policies to protect their immigrant students.
We are grateful to have five effective immigrant legal services in Berkeley who are able to provide further resources and support.
This is a dynamic situation and things can change quickly. We will be sure to provide updates as needed.
Please stay safe.
