Know your rights & protect your co-workers from ICE
Over the past two weeks, UPTE members have been mobilizing to protect our patients, students, and the communities we serve. UCLA members mobilized to provide security for undocumented students, also known as DREAMers, during graduation. Meanwhile, UC Irvine members held an emergency town hall in response to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) staging at one of UC's new hospitals. Additionally, members across the state joined "No Kings" protests on Saturday.
As ICE raids continue to threaten our workplaces and communities, we want to make sure you know your rights so that you can protect your co-workers, friends, students, patients, and family.
University leadership has directed UC staff not to consent to ICE searches or requests for information without prior authorization from administration and legal counsel. Please make sure your colleagues are aware of the following:
ICE officers require a valid judicial warrant to access non-public areas of our facilities, such as clinical units, offices, or any area marked "private."
Public areas (e.g., lobbies, waiting rooms, parking lots) do not require a warrant for entry.
If an ICE officer attempts to present a warrant and enter your facility, do not consent to any search or provide information; instead, tell them to wait outside and contact the appropriate administrator.
Do not attempt to physically block or interfere with law enforcement. Instead, document the interaction and follow the established response process.
Do not answer questions from ICE about who is present at the worksite or their immigration or documentation status.
Here is a list of immigration resources compiled by the UCLA Labor Center, including regional emergency hotlines.
Please reach out to your UPTE Organizer or Unit Representative immediately if you are aware of ICE activity that may pose a threat to your co-workers or those who depend on us.
We are proud to see our fellow UPTE members stand together and show the courage to advocate for others in this moment.
In solidarity,
Dan Russell
UPTE President & Chief Negotiator
Business Technology Support Analyst, UC Berkeley
