Congress must investigate FBI attacks on anti-ICE dissent

Speaking out against ICE abuses is not terrorism. But under Donald Trump, the FBI is treating it like it is.

New reporting shows the FBI opening terrorism investigations and circulating internal memos that frame anti-ICE activism as a national security threat. Peaceful protests, organizing, and public speech are all targeted simply for challenging Trump’s immigration agenda.

The message is clear: speak out against ICE, and you could end up under federal investigation. That’s how authoritarian crackdowns begin — not with laws debated in public, but with quiet intimidation meant to scare people into silence. Congress must fight back.

Tell Congress: “Investigate the FBI’s attacks on anti-ICE dissent, defend the First Amendment, and stop the criminalization of protest before it spreads.”

Public outrage over ICE abuses is growing. But instead of answering for mass detention, deportations, and family separation, the administration is trying to criminalize opposition. Label dissent as “terrorism,” and you don’t have to address the truth.

We’ve seen this playbook before. Immigrant communities and communities of color are targeted first. But once the FBI is unleashed against protected speech, the dragnet never stops there. Labor organizers, climate activists, journalists — anyone who challenges power becomes vulnerable.

Congress has the authority — and the obligation — to stop this now. The House and Senate Judiciary Committees must investigate the FBI’s targeting of anti-ICE dissent, subpoena internal DOJ and FBI memos, and force officials to testify under oath. Lawmakers must draw a clear line: opposing ICE is protected speech, not terrorism.

Oversight only happens when the public demands it. Add your name to demand Congress take action to protect the First Amendment and our democracy now.

The petition to Congress reads: “Investigate the FBI’s attacks on anti-ICE dissent, defend the First Amendment, and stop the criminalization of protest before it spreads.”