NYC Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani Releases Video Guiding Immigrants on Rights During ICE Encounters
NEW YORK, N.Y. — In a move underscoring his commitment to the city’s immigrant population, New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani released a detailed video on Sunday advising residents of their legal rights when confronted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The video comes in the wake of a recent ICE raid in Manhattan and signals a new administration determined to shield the city’s estimated 3 million immigrants from aggressive federal enforcement actions.
Mamdani opened the video by recalling the attempted ICE operation in Manhattan last weekend, which sought to detain undocumented immigrants. “As mayor, I’ll protect the rights of every single New Yorker, and that includes the more than 3 million immigrants who call this city their home,” he said. “But we can all stand up to ICE if you know your rights.”
The mayor-elect provided clear guidance on how New Yorkers should respond if ICE agents knock on their doors. He emphasized that ICE cannot legally enter private spaces such as homes, schools, or private workplaces without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. “If ICE does not have a judicial warrant signed by a judge, you have the right to say, ‘I do not consent to entry’ and the right to keep your door closed,” Mamdani advised.
He further clarified that ICE agents might present paperwork claiming authority to make an arrest, but such documents do not substitute for a judicial warrant. “ICE is legally allowed to lie to you, but you have the right to remain silent,” he said. Mamdani encouraged individuals to repeatedly ask, “Am I free to go?” if they are being detained, until the agents provide an answer.
The video also highlighted that New Yorkers are legally permitted to film ICE encounters, provided they do not interfere with the agents’ work. “It is important to remain calm during any interaction with ICE or law enforcement. Do not impede their investigation, resist arrest or run,” Mamdani stressed.
This guidance aligns with protections under the American Civil Liberties Union’s immigrant rights resources, which emphasize the importance of knowing one’s rights in interactions with immigration authorities.
Mamdani’s announcement arrives amid ongoing tensions between local and federal authorities over immigration enforcement. The previous New York City administration had a contentious relationship with ICE, and Mamdani vowed that the city’s police department would “never” return to the cooperation policies seen under former Mayor Eric Adams, which critics say led to increased ICE arrests.
The mayor-elect also reaffirmed New Yorkers’ constitutional right to protest, promising that his administration would protect this right vigorously. “New York will always welcome immigrants, and we will defend the right of all New Yorkers to stand up for their communities,” he said.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS Immigration Enforcement) continues to conduct operations nationwide, but cities like New York are increasingly asserting their autonomy in protecting immigrant residents. Mamdani’s video serves as both a practical guide and a political statement, signaling a city government ready to challenge federal immigration policies it views as harmful.
For immigrants and advocates seeking further information, resources are available through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of Justice’s immigration division, which provide official guidance on rights and procedures during immigration enforcement encounters.
As Mamdani prepares to take office, his administration’s approach to immigration enforcement will be closely watched by advocates, residents, and federal agencies alike, marking a pivotal moment in New York City’s ongoing struggle over immigration policy and community safety.
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