Admin / Coordinator
Admin / Coordinator Role
Section titled “Admin / Coordinator Role”The Rapid Response/Verifier Administration serves as the central coordinator and decision-maker for all Rapid Response operations. They oversee Verifiers, Community Patrols, Mobile Communication Support, and ICE Watch teams to ensure swift, safe, and effective action.
Core Responsibilities
Section titled “Core Responsibilities”Coordination & Oversight
Section titled “Coordination & Oversight”- Direct and support Verifiers, Patrols, Mobile Communication, and ICE Watch roles
- Ensure each operates within established community guidelines
- Maintain the network infrastructure (Signal groups, protocols, training schedules)
Deployment Decisions
Section titled “Deployment Decisions”- Assess incoming reports for credibility and urgency
- Determine appropriate response (verification, patrol, or ICE Watch mobilization)
- Dispatch verifiers to specific locations
Information Management
Section titled “Information Management”- Receive, review, and consolidate SALUTE reports from field teams
- Provide clear guidance back to responders and the broader community
- Maintain records of verified activity for pattern analysis
Communication Hub
Section titled “Communication Hub”- Maintain immediate, secure, and transparent communication across all teams
- Ensure rapid information flow while minimizing confusion
- Manage multiple Signal channels simultaneously
Protocol Enforcement
Section titled “Protocol Enforcement”- Uphold community safety standards
- Ensure no self-incrimination in communications
- Prevent posting of identifying photos without consent
- Ensure all actions remain non-violent and legally sound
Safety & Accountability
Section titled “Safety & Accountability”- Prioritize protection of vulnerable individuals and responders
- Document activity for accountability and potential legal support
- Debrief after incidents
Skills Required
Section titled “Skills Required”- Communication - Clear, calm communication under pressure
- Decision-making - Quick assessment of incomplete information
- Organization - Managing multiple information streams
- Technology - Proficiency with Signal and digital tools
- Leadership - Guiding teams without micromanaging
- Judgment - Knowing when to escalate and when to hold back
Typical Admin Actions
Section titled “Typical Admin Actions”When a Report Comes In
Section titled “When a Report Comes In”- Acknowledge receipt - Let reporter know you received the message
- Request SALUTE - If not provided, ask for details
- Assess credibility - Is this likely ICE or a false alarm?
- Decide response - Dispatch verifier, monitor, or dismiss
During Active Verification
Section titled “During Active Verification”- Coordinate verifiers - Direct them to location
- Provide support - Answer questions, check license plates
- Update broader network - Send appropriate alerts
- Document - Keep running log of events
After an Incident
Section titled “After an Incident”- Confirm status - All clear or ongoing
- Broadcast update - Alert network of resolution
- Debrief - Collect information from all responders
- Report - Send information to legal advocates if detention occurred
Managing False Alarms
Section titled “Managing False Alarms”False alarms are inevitable. Handle them gracefully:
Unhelpful response:
“That’s not ICE, stop wasting our time”
Better response:
“Thank you for reporting. Our verifier confirmed this was [local police/utility workers/etc]. Please keep watching and report if you see anything else suspicious.”
This encourages continued vigilance without creating shame for false alarms.
Maintaining Chat Discipline
Section titled “Maintaining Chat Discipline”During active incidents, keep verification channels clear:
If someone asks an unrelated question:
“We have an active verification in progress. Please keep the chat clear unless you have something to report or verify.”
After the incident:
“All clear. Thank you everyone for the quick response. Feel free to resume normal chat.”
Vetting Requirements
Section titled “Vetting Requirements”Admins require the highest vetting level:
- Must be known and trusted by existing admin team
- Reference required from someone vouched for
- Brief phone call interview
- Review of protocols document
- Probationary period with oversight
See Vetting Guidelines for complete process.
Time Commitment
Section titled “Time Commitment”Admin work includes:
- Monitoring channels during designated shifts
- Responding to off-hours emergencies when on call
- Attending regular coordination meetings
- Training new volunteers
- Updating protocols as tactics change
Most networks have multiple admins who rotate coverage.
Self-Care
Section titled “Self-Care”Admin work can be stressful. Practice:
- Setting boundaries on availability
- Sharing the load with other admins
- Debriefing after difficult incidents
- Recognizing signs of burnout
- Taking breaks when needed