Mamdani Tells Immigrants To Know Their Rights After ICE Raid
New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani released a video message urging immigrants to understand their legal rights after a recent immigration enforcement raid in Manhattan. The message was issued days after an attempted ICE operation in Chinatown sparked protests and concerns among local residents.
Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026. He said New York “will remain a city for all immigrants” and urged communities to stay calm but remain informed.
Key Rights Highlighted
Mamdani explained that ICE agents cannot enter homes, private workplaces or schools without a judge-signed warrant. He added that people have the right to remain silent, ask officers whether they are free to leave, and legally record encounters if they do not interfere.
He warned that agents may sometimes show documents that look official but are not valid warrants.
Appeal To Communities
The mayor-elect encouraged immigrants to stand together and support one another, saying knowledge of basic rights can prevent unnecessary fear. The video aimed to reassure millions of immigrant residents in New York, many of whom are anxious after recent enforcement actions.
Advocacy groups welcomed the message, saying clarity was essential at a time of uncertainty.
