Ren's De-Classified Abolish Ice Community Guide

ICE does not operate in a vacuum. It relies on silence, confusion, and the idea that most people don’t know what to do when harm is happening nearby. This guide was created to interrupt that cycle by offering practical, accessible ways for people to show up for their neighbors and communities in moments that matter.

1. Call Congress to Defund ICE

• Call your Senator or Representative and urge them to oppose ICE funding in DHS appropriations.

• You can use a short script and keep the call under 60 seconds.

• Voicemails count.

• U.S. Capitol Switchboard: 202-224-3121

• Calls signal voter accountability and political pressure.

2. Know What to Do If You See ICE

• Report ICE activity to your local rapid response network.

• Use whistle signals to alert others:

  • Short alerts if ICE is nearby.

  • Continuous sound if someone is being detained.

• Record interactions from a safe distance.

• Document details:

  • Badge numbers and names

  • Agency (ICE, CBP, DHS)

  • Vehicle descriptions and license plates

• Remind people of their rights: do not sign anything, ask for a lawyer.

• Do not physically interfere or obstruct agents.

• Support detained individuals by collecting their name, date of birth, and contact info for family or legal support.

3. What to Bring and Wear for Actions or Protests

Bring:

• Small backpack

• Shatter-resistant goggles

• Ear plugs

• Cash

• Paper and pen

• Necessary medications (up to 3 days)

• Menstrual pads (not tampons)

• Water and non-perishable snacks

• ID if you have one

• Emergency contact info written down

• Basic first aid supplies

• Fully charged phone and portable charger

• Extra clothes in a plastic bag

Wear:

• Face mask

• Comfortable shoes

• Hat or helmet with a brim

• Bandana

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Water-based sunscreen

• Glasses instead of contacts

• Sunglasses or goggles

4. Prepare Before an Action

• Do a threat and risk assessment.

• Check in with yourself and your group mentally, physically, and emotionally.

• Use a buddy system and plan meeting points.

• Have a separation plan if things get chaotic.

• Turn off facial recognition and fingerprint phone unlocking.

• Prioritize hydration, calm, and collective care.

5. Continue Learning About Organizing and Immigration

Recommended Books:

• Are Prisons Obsolete? — Angela Y. Davis

• No One Is Illegal — Justin Akers Chacón & Mike Davis

• They Take Our Jobs! — Aviva Chomsky

• Migra! — Kelly Lytle Hernández

• The Making of the Mexican Border — Kelly Lytle Hernández

Free Zines & Toolkits:

• Interrupting Criminalization

• Project NIA

• Mijente

6. Support Organizations, Artists, and Creators

• Immigration enforcement thrives on isolation; resistance works through connection.

• Support immigrant-led organizations, rapid response networks, artists, and educators.

• Take action in whatever way you can: calling, protesting, donating, sharing resources.

• Stay connected to local networks so you know how to respond in real time.