As the ICE operations in Minnesota continue, feelings of uncertainty and fear increase significantly. The fear and devastation in our community are truly unprecedented. Concerns about the presence of ICE can be overwhelming, but there are ways to manage these stressful times and keep yourself safe.

     Reach out to those you know and have connections to in the community who have been affected by the federal agents in the city. As high schools and school children like 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos have been targeted, it is clear that people of all ages are subject to the pepper spray, handcuffs, and fists of the agents firsthand.

     Based on the results of the Spectrum January Poll with 169 respondents, only 25% of the student body feels prepared for an interaction with an ICE agent. Although it is impossible to be fully prepared for situations like these, know your rights. Teachers are doing a great job of incentivizing conversation and explaining individualsí rights in the face of federal agents. Discussing the challenges of our current situation in Minneapolis is a safe way to communicate comfortably with people we know and work together to show up for our community.

     If you are in a situation where you encounter ICE agents, record everything. Recording is our right and can be very useful in times like these. Additionally, more people are directly affected by the ICE presence than you might realize, especially within our community here at school. Recognize this and be conscious of our interactions with others, especially at this time. Look out for each other, stay safe, and remain connected and present with those around you.