New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani took to social media on Sunday to strongly condemn a reported attempt by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) over the weekend to detain immigrants on Canal Street. He also shared a detailed “Know Your Rights” guide for the city’s immigrant population.
Mamdani, who is set to take office soon, reaffirmed his commitment to New York’s diverse residents, stating, “As mayor, I’ll protect the rights of every single New Yorker—and that includes the more than three million immigrants who call this city home.”
In his video, Mamdani began by referencing the alleged ICE operation: “Last weekend, ICE attempted to raid Canal Street and detain our immigrant neighbors.” He then shifted to educating the public, urging New Yorkers to stand up to ICE by understanding their legal rights.
Mamdani outlined several key rights concerning interactions with ICE. He emphasized that “ICE cannot enter private spaces like your home, school, or a private area of your workplace without a judicial warrant signed by a judge.” He advised that if ICE agents do not present such a warrant, residents have “the right to say, ‘I do not consent to entry,’ and to keep your door closed.”
The mayor-elect also cautioned that “ICE is legally allowed to lie to you,” specifically referring to non-judicial paperwork agents may present. He reminded residents that they “have the right to remain silent” and should always ask, “Am I free to go?” New Yorkers are legally permitted to film ICE interactions, provided they “do not interfere with an arrest.”
Mamdani urged individuals to “remain calm during any interaction with ICE or law enforcement” and not to “impede investigations, resist arrest, or run.”
He concluded his message with a firm pledge to the immigrant community, vowing that his administration will remain a steadfast ally. “New York will always welcome immigrants,” he said. “I will fight each and every day to protect, support, and celebrate our immigrant brothers and sisters.”
Mamdani also reaffirmed a constitutional right often central to immigrant advocacy: “New Yorkers have a constitutional right to protest—and when I’m mayor, we will protect that right.”
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
