Community Activists Train Against Immigration Enforcement in Charlotte
In Charlotte, North Carolina, community activists are intensifying their fight against federal immigration enforcement. They recently transformed a church basement into a training space where volunteers engaged in role-playing as undocumented immigrants.
The Dilworth United Methodist Church was filled to capacity on Monday night when Siembra, North Carolina, conducted a session titled “ICE and Border Patrol Oversight.” According to local reports, trainers guided participants through exercises focused on tracking federal agents, recording detention encounters, and alerting neighbors when immigration officials are active in their areas.
During the training, volunteers simulated mock arrest scenarios. Trainees practiced capturing footage of encounters, shouting scripted alerts, and instructing “detainees” on how to respond to law enforcement approaches. The activities included using whistles to signal the presence of ICE agents, with mostly liberal white women pretending to be immigrants in detention scenarios.
“I came here tonight to learn what I can do. I’ve never participated in this type of direct action before,” shared Donna Lancross, a resident of Charlotte. Although she expressed concerns about potentially violent confrontations, she noted that the gathering fostered a sense of community solidarity.
“We’re worried about violence. It’s really nice to share our concerns with each other. We feel strong together,” Lancross added.
Training materials directed volunteers to accompany immigrants to their workplaces and schools, document federal actions, and monitor potential violations of First, Fourth, and Fifth Amendment rights. Organizers stressed the volunteers’ rights when photographing federal employees.
Pastor Joel Simpson commended the participants, emphasizing that the turnout highlighted the community’s commitment to mutual support. “I’m grateful, and it reminds me of how much our community cares for one another,” he said. “People don’t come out like this on a Monday night unless they truly care.”
Attorney Tim Emry remarked that the training was an opportunity for local residents to learn how to identify Border Patrol agents in their vicinity. “This is a chance to get educated on recognizing their presence and using tools, even outdated ones, to alert others,” he explained.
Recently, the Department of Homeland Security initiated Operation Charlotte’s Web, which resulted in 81 arrests on its first day. Officials stated this operation targets criminal immigrants exploiting North Carolina’s lenient policies.
Border Patrol Chief Agent Greg Bovino led this operation, having previously overseen similar actions in cities like Los Angeles and Chicago. As he continues, he posted images of arrests made during the operation, highlighting concerns over undocumented immigrants with violent criminal histories.
“Americans should be able to live without the fear of violent criminal aliens threatening them and their families,” stated Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for public affairs at the DHS.
The DHS has yet to respond to requests for further comments regarding the operation.
