Stop ICE Agents From Hiding Their Faces

Across the country, ICE agents are showing up at homes, schools, and workplaces wearing ski masks and plain clothes, often failing to identify themselves before detaining people. These secretive tactics are traumatizing families, sowing confusion and fear, and violating basic principles of transparency and accountability in law enforcement.

Senators Alex Padilla and Cory Booker just introduced the VISIBLE Act. This crucial bill would require all ICE and immigration agents to display clear identification and prohibit them from wearing masks during arrests, unless absolutely necessary for safety. This bill could finally establish federal standards that end these secretive and abusive practices.

But we’re up against a powerful enforcement machine and an entrenched culture of impunity. The Department of Homeland Security won’t act on its own. We need massive public pressure to show Congress that the American people won’t tolerate secret police tactics on U.S. soil.

The facts are chilling: A growing number of immigration officers are carrying out raids without showing badges, while covering their faces and refusing to answer questions—even as bystanders record them. Legal experts and civil rights groups warn that this behavior violates due process and has led to wrongful detentions and racial profiling.

According to a recent Guardian report, incidents of masked arrests have been rising nationwide, sparking outrage in states like New York, Massachusetts, and California, where local officials are also demanding change.

We need action now. The VISIBLE Act is our opportunity to lift the veil on these shadowy operations and demand humane, accountable immigration enforcement. Congress must pass this bill before it’s too late.