Dozens of residents, many from the city’s immigrant communities, appeared online for a Know Your Rights event in response to growing concerns about immigration raids.
The event, initially planned for in/person attendance, grew to the building’s capacity as the event quickly changed to an online forum.
“And then there were 60, and then there were 70, and word got around,” Jane Tamanga, a key organizer noted. “It was seamless.”
Frederick’s Immigration Law History
Frederick County Sheriff Charles “Chuck“ Jenkins has been a pioneer in implementing and facilitating the 287G program, making Frederick one of the leading counties in the state of ICE raids and deportations. In early 2008, Sheriff Jenkins partnered with the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to implement the 287(g) program in Frederick County. This program allows ICE to delegate specific immigration enforcement functions to specially trained state and local law enforcement officers under ICE’s supervision. Sixteen correctional officers and ten law enforcement deputies completed training in early 2008, officially launching the program in Frederick County on April 11, 2008.
Sheriff Jenkins has been a staunch advocate of the 287(g) program, asserting that it serves as a “virtual fence” around Frederick County, deterring gangs and preventing accused criminals from returning to the streets. Since 2008, the program has led to approximately 2,000 ICE detainers, including over 100 gang members and nearly 100 individuals charged with serious offenses such as murder, attempted murder, or sex offenses against minors.
However, the implementation of the 287(g) program under Sheriff Jenkins has faced significant resistance from community members and civil rights organizations. Critics argue that the program fosters anti-immigrant sentiment and may lead to racial profiling. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Maryland has accused Sheriff Jenkins of misusing his authority by promoting anti-immigrant hate and violating the civil rights of community members.
Additionally, data suggests that counties without the 287(g) program, such as Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, have seen greater reductions in crime rates compared to Frederick County, challenging claims that the program enhances community safety.
Advocacy and Unity
The Know Your Rights event, hosted by Rise, AACF in collaboration with Centro de Hispano, was a direct response to the fear rippling through the immigrant population. These organizations, known for their deep ties to Spanish-speaking and other immigrant communities, worked tirelessly to organize the event, ensuring a smooth transition to an online platform for those unable to attend in person. Their goal was clear: to provide information, not to debate.
“We needed a respectful space where people could learn how to protect themselves,” said Jane. “The fear is real, but so is the power of knowing your rights.”
One of the most critical voices of the evening was Viviana Westbrook, an immigration lawyer who laid out clear steps for what to do if ICE approached.
- Stay silent. You do not have to answer any questions.
- Do not open the door. ICE must have a warrant signed by a judge.
- Ask for paperwork. A warrant must be judicial, not an administrative document.
- Have a plan. Identify a trusted contact who can help in an emergency.
- Get a lawyer. Legal representation can make all the difference.
- Prepare documents. Set up alternative childcare and power of attorney if detained.
Questions poured in through the online chat. How should parents prepare in case they were detained? What legal resources were available? What was the city’s role?
The City’s Stance
The most reassuring voice of the evening came from the City of Frederick Police Chief, Jason Lando, who addressed the community directly.
“We don’t want people to be afraid of the police,” Lando stated. “We are here to protect you, not to act as an extension of immigration enforcement.”
Lando advised that Frederick’s police would not be cooperating with the Sheriff’s Office or federal immigration authorities in targeting residents for deportation but that they cannot interfere with federal law enforcement; Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations were out of their jurisdiction, and the city had no authority to prevent them. Frederick’s mayor and city police leadership had publicly stated their opposition to immigration raids, emphasizing that they were here to serve and protect all residents, regardless of status, nonetheless.
The Future of Frederick City Immigration
Frederick, like many cities across the country, remains caught between federal immigration enforcement and local efforts to protect vulnerable communities. Despite the mayor’s and police department’s firm stance against raids, they cannot stop them. The people of Frederick are left in a state of vigilance—watching and hoping for the best while preparing for the worst.
For now, knowledge is their greatest shield, and the community is standing together to ensure that no one faces the storm alone.
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