Mescalero Apache Tribal Member Questioned by Immigration Agents for Passport
A Mescalero Apache tribal member was recently questioned by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and asked for a passport, according to Mescalero Apache President Thora Walsh-Padilla. The incident, which was verified on Thursday, occurred while the tribal member was standing in line with their family.
According to reports, an ICE agent approached the tribal member in Spanish, to which the tribal member responded in English. The tribal member then presented their driver’s license and tribal identification when asked for a passport, prompting the ICE agent to end questioning and leave.
In response to the incident, tribal leadership is actively working with the New Mexico Congressional Delegation to protect the rights of tribal members. They have advised tribal members to be aware of their surroundings, keep identification with them at all times, and communicate their rights and concerns effectively to federal agents.
This incident comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s announcement of expanded immigration enforcement activities. New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez has issued guidance outlining protections against unreasonable search and seizure, while Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren has warned Navajo people living in urban areas about potential interactions with immigration agents.
While requests for comment from ICE regarding the incident were not returned, the Mescalero Apache tribe continues to advocate for the protection and rights of its members in the face of increased immigration enforcement activities.
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