In brief
In a video shared on social media, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani underlined the rights of immigrants during U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. After recent arrests in Manhattan, he reassured NYC's 3 million immigrants that they have the right to refuse communication with ICE agents and to film them. He stated that ICE cannot enter private spaces without proper judicial authorization, encouraging individuals to ask if they are free to go if detained. He reiterated NYC's commitment to supporting immigrants, vowing to fight for their rights.
NEW YORK — New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani posted a video on social media stressing immigrants’ rights in response to recent federal ICE raids in Manhattan. He reassured the city's large immigrant community, saying, “We can all stand up to ICE if you know your rights.”
Mamdani explained viewers can refuse to speak with federal immigration agents and capture footage without interference. He clarified that ICE requires a judicial warrant to enter homes, schools, or private areas of workplaces.
“ICE is legally allowed to lie to you, but you have the right to remain silent. If you’re being detained, you may ask, ‘Am I free to go?’” stated Mamdani, who will officially become mayor on January 1.
These remarks came in the wake of public protests against an ICE operation on Canal Street, a popular area near Chinatown, where demonstrators gathered to support those targeted. Just months prior, a similar incident faced strong backlash within the community.
“New York will always welcome immigrants, and I will fight every day to protect, support, and celebrate our immigrant brothers and sisters,” Mamdani added in his video.
