Yesterday morning, federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents entered a Columbia residential building and detained a Columbia student. The agents reportedly misrepresented themselves to gain entry and did not present a judicial warrant or subpoena before entering the residence. The student was released later the same day.
This ICE incursion and targeted arrest on one of our campuses was completely illegal. As the Joint Council of UAW Local 4100, we strongly condemn this use of federal enforcement actions. We believe our campuses and workplaces must be safe for all people to live, work and study. We stand with Elmina Aghayeva and all people facing unlawful and racist ICE raids, and are committed to defending their rights.
If you ever experience a visa or immigration related emergency, immediately reach out to your local steward or email organizing@wcmpostdocunion.org.
Please also see resources available to all of us below:
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UAW Immigration Hotline: 888-416-2110 (West coast based)
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New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigration Affairs Immigration Legal Support Hotline:
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American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Know Your Rights resources: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights
At our last membership meeting, a member proposed a statement on the unlawful violence carried out by ICE. Members voted to modify the statement so it could be brought back for a vote either to the next membership meeting or over email. Following this decision, the statement has been modified. In light of yesterday’s events, we feel it is important to act without delay. For that reason, we are moving this revised statement to a membership vote immediately. The vote will be open now, and close on Monday night at 11:59pm. Please take a moment to cast your vote here.
Vote on ICE Statement Proposal
In Solidarity,
UAW Local 4100 Joint Council