U.S. Border Czar Tom Homan has requested the Department of Justice to evaluate a recent webinar organized by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s office, which provided guidance to migrants on handling encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Homan expressed concerns that the event might impede federal law enforcement operations.
The webinar offered advice on asserting constitutional rights during ICE interactions, including recommendations to avoid opening doors without a warrant and to remain silent during questioning. While Ocasio-Cortez did not personally participate, her office facilitated the session.
In response to Homan’s remarks, Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the importance of educating individuals about their legal rights, asserting that such knowledge ensures ICE operates within constitutional boundaries. She also highlighted that residing in the U.S. without legal status is a civil violation, not a criminal offense.
This development underscores the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the dissemination of information to vulnerable communities.