MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Concerns are escalating among Native American communities in the U.S. as reports of increased interactions with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents emerge. Tribal leaders are advocating for all community members to always carry their tribal identification to safeguard their rights when approached by federal authorities.
Following a series of detentions of Indigenous individuals, many tribal leaders and organizations suggest that having tribal IDs on hand can help clarify legal status and prevent wrongful detentions. This call comes amid heightened ICE enforcement activities across the Minneapolis and St. Paul area.
Ben Barnes, chief of the Shawnee Tribe in Oklahoma and chair of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, expressed his deep concern over the reports of ICE activities affecting Native Americans. These reports are deeply concerning and highlight the need for our communities to be prepared and informed, he said.
In Minneapolis, several tribal organizations are proactively addressing the issue by setting up application booths to assist individuals in obtaining tribal IDs, ensuring that community members are equipped with proper identification that reflects their right to remain in the country.
This initiative follows a series of troubling instances where native individuals reported being stopped or detained by ICE agents. Leaders emphasize the need for tribal members to document these interactions to raise awareness about the treatment of Indigenous peoples under federal immigration policy.
As tensions rise around immigration enforcement policies, the message from tribal leaders is clear: Carry your tribal ID and understand your rights to navigate these challenges safely and effectively.
