Overview
Rapid Response Network Overview
Section titled “Rapid Response Network Overview”A rapid response network is a way for organizers and community members to get involved in ICE watch and rapid response. ICE/Migra Watch was adapted from CopWatch training that originated with the Black Panther Party in the 1960s and was utilized again in the 1990s and beyond.
In 2017, People’s Response Team and Organized Communities Against Deportation (OCAD) adapted the Copwatch training for what we now refer to as ICE Watch.
Why Documentation and Response?
Section titled “Why Documentation and Response?”We focus on documentation and response because:
- First Line of Defense - It can be the first line of defense to get assistance to impacted people and deter immigration enforcers
- Track Changing Tactics - Immigration enforcers are always changing their tactics and we can learn and share this information
- Safety in Numbers - We believe that we are all safer when we stick together — there is safety and power in numbers!
Localizing Your Network
Section titled “Localizing Your Network”Localizing your rapid response to a particular neighborhood and area of the city/town is best. The more neighbors that are involved in rapid response in their local area:
- The more quickly they can detect ICE activity
- The faster they can alert vulnerable community members to stay away from the area
- The more effectively they can alert verifiers to respond and mobilize if an ICE detainment is happening
ICE Watch is NOT About Interfering
Section titled “ICE Watch is NOT About Interfering”ICE Watch is about documentation and community support, not physical interference with law enforcement.
We do this to protect our neighborhoods from immigration enforcement by:
- Ensuring our community members know their rights and have a plan
- Deterring misconduct or aggressive activity by ICE agents through documentation and witness presence
Core Goals
Section titled “Core Goals”| Goal | Description |
|---|---|
| DOCUMENT | To get a better understanding of tactics |
| SUPPORT | Community members who are being targeted |
| DE-ESCALATE | To stop violence against neighbors from any law enforcement agency |
Legal Basis
Section titled “Legal Basis”Documenting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is legal and protected by the Constitution.
- You have the right to record or film public officials including law enforcement (ICE, police officers, sheriffs, etc.) in public and on your property
- Without a warrant, law enforcement may not confiscate or demand to see your digital content