juli

I sat down a few days ago to write a standard “Know Your Rights” post for everyone on the ground in the Twin Cities. I wanted to tell you about the Fourth Amendment. I wanted to tell you that they need a signed judicial warrant to enter your home. I wanted to give you the script to say “I do not consent to this search.”

But I realized I would be lying to you if I said that mattered right now.

The reality on the streets of Minneapolis is that ICE is operating as a lawless, paramilitary force. They are pulling people out of cars without cause. They are snatching people off the street. We have seen them murder innocents like Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, and face zero consequences. When federal agents are tearing gas peaceful protestors and ignoring court orders, “legal rights” feel like a fairy tale.

You cannot recite the Constitution to a jackboot on your neck and expect it to save you.

So, screw the “legal” advice. If you are in Minnesota, or if you are anywhere in this country watching this nightmare expand, here is the SURVIVAL advice.

IF YOU ARE IN A VIOLENT ZONE / PROTEST:

Do not engage alone. ICE relies on isolation. If you see them grabbing someone, do not physically intervene unless you have the numbers to de-arrest safely (and know what you are doing), but do not let them operate in the dark. Film everything. Stream it. Scream. Make sure they know the world is watching.

Biometrics are dangerous. Turn off FaceID/TouchID on your phone. If you are detained, they will try to force your phone open. Set a long, alphanumeric passcode.

If you are near the protests, wear nondescript clothing. Cover identifiable tattoos. Carry saline for tear gas. Write a lawyer’s number on your arm in permanent marker.

FOR EVERYONE (CITIZEN OR NOT) DEALING WITH ICE:

If they knock, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR. It doesn’t matter what they say. It doesn’t matter if they say they just “want to talk” or “check your papers.” Unless they batter that door down (which is rare but happening), you keep that physical barrier between you and them. Talk through the door. Slide nothing under it.

Scrub your social media if you are undocumented or organizing. Use Signal with disappearing messages. ICE is using data dragging and AI surveillance, don’t make their job easier by posting your location in real-time.

Know your neighbors. Who is vulnerable? Who has a safe basement?

Minneapolis, we are with you. We see you. We are screaming with you. The law has left the building, so we have to protect each other.