The Majority Report with Sam Seder

3628 - Community Fights ICE; Starbucks Strike & Boycott w/ Hunter Demster, Sabina Aguerre

Nov 19, 2025
Hunter Demster, co-founder of Vecindarios 901, sheds light on the crucial work his organization does in Memphis, training immigrants on their rights and monitoring ICE operations. He discusses the alarming collaboration between local law enforcement and federal agents, and how his team responds to immigration enforcement incidents. Sabina Aguirre, a Starbucks barista, shares insights on the ongoing strikes for better labor conditions and the consumer boycott of Starbucks to support unionization. Together, they highlight activism and community resilience in the face of adversity.
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ANECDOTE

Origin Story Of Vecindarios 901

  • Hunter Demster describes founding Vecindarios 901 modeled on Colorado's Rapid Response Network during the first Trump presidency.
  • They set up a 24/7 bilingual dispatcher and trained confirmers across Shelby County to track ICE activity.
INSIGHT

Memphis As A Large-Scale Enforcement Test

  • Memphis became a large-scale enforcement zone with a 1,500-agent 'Memphis Safe Task Force' and 300 state troopers added.
  • Hunter says the operation combines federal and local policing to mass-pull over and racially profile Hispanic neighborhoods.
ADVICE

Document Actions And Provide Post-Raid Support

  • Film and document operations to 'watch the watchers' and change officer behavior when cameras are on them.
  • After enforcement actions, plug families into attorneys, childcare, and material support to stabilize immediate needs.
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