POV: Expert Communications Guidance on ICE Enforcement Activity
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fatally shot a 37-year-old woman in Minneapolis during a federal immigration enforcement operation — an incident that has triggered nationwide protests and calls to rethink enforcement strategies.
In Philadelphia and around the country, protesters have rallied and called for ICE to be removed from communities in response to the Minneapolis shooting. “ICE Out For Good” and other community protests and vigils have drawn hundreds to thousands of participants. Local officials have publicly condemned violence and emphasized accountability.
There is historical tension in some states regarding ICE cooperation with local law enforcement and sanctuary policies, which has resulted in legal and political disputes.
This context continues to evolve; new developments may influence local responses.
Considerations for Corporate, Community, and Civic Leaders
Corporate, Community, and Civic leaders and their organizations may be asked to weigh in on this issue. Before issuing a statement or speaking publicly, it’s important to align messaging with your organization’s mission, values, and actions.
Consider the following questions:
Does your organization have direct programmatic involvement with immigrants affected by enforcement actions?
Has your organization engaged in systemic advocacy (e.g., legal support, rights education)?
Does your organizations have on-the-ground actions that support your stance?
Proactive or Reactive?
Proactive media statements will be most credible when backed by sustained actions, not just reactions to media cycles. It’s also important to engage the right communications and PR counsel before weighing in on a polarizing issue.
Crisis+ Strategies Key Do’s & Don’ts
Do:
Do focus messaging on principles, for example, support human dignity, due process, or community safety as part of your message. Advocate for systemic reforms if aligned with your mission.
Do center messaging on your own authority. For example, limit your comments to your community’s experience and needs rather than broad statements.
Do emphasize rights, safety, and support, not just opposition to ICE.
Do collaborate with other community and faith leaders to unify messaging.
Do pause other content on social media if a significant event occurs.
Do engage expert communications counsel.
Don’t:
Don’t share inflammatory language that could put your community at risk or escalate tensions, including language that may be construed as inciting resistance to lawful authority.
Don’t share unverified or emotionally charged content that can spread misinformation or panic.
Don’t share unverified claims or hostile rhetoric that could incite fear or harm.
Don’t make rushed statements without internal consensus, appropriate expert counsel, or clear grounding in your mission.
Resources to Share With Your Community
Know Your Rights guides such as local legal aid, and immigrant defense organizations.
Contact information for immigrant legal service providers.
Local sanctuary policy summaries and legal protections.