Reading Progress:

Interacting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement

The Klamath Tribes is concerned with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids taking place throughout Oregon and the United States. ICE was recently reported in Bend, Salem and Madras, Oregon and will likely be in our community in the near future. Tribal citizens may be stopped and asked about their immigration status and sometimes this can be a negative experience. The following information is provided in an effort to inform how to properly prove your U.S. citizenship and avoid a more complicated interaction with ICE or law enforcement.

Please carry a state-issued identification such as a driver’s license or other state-issued picture i.d. and your Tribal identification and if available your Certification of Indian Blood (CIB) which may provide an additional layer of reassurance.

Remain calm. Be prepared.

INTERACTING WITH IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT

  • Documents that prove U.S. Citizenship: U.S. Passport; voter I.D. card; birth certificate or a state-issued identification.
  • Carry Tribal identification for additional assurance.
  • Be truthful. Lying to federal agents is, in and of itself, a crime.
  • Be clear and honest in your responses.
  • You may choose to remain silent until your attorney is present.
  • If you are stopped and questioned, do not escalate the situation. Please comply with law enforcement if asked to verify your identity.
  • Law enforcement officials may hold you until your citizenship status is determined.
  • If you are stopped by ICE please notify the Klamath Tribes. This information will be shared with the appropriate federal agencies and Congressional leadership.

PHONE NUMBERS:

Chairman William Ray, Jr.
The Klamath Tribes
541-891-7422

James Moore
Klamath Tribal Police Chief
541-891-0028

George Lopez
Klamath Tribal Administration
General Manager
541-363-2188

Legal Aid Services of Oregon
Klamath Falls Regional Office
541-273-0533
800-480-9160
Monday—Friday 9:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m.

Download Information Sheet .pdf