Here & Now Anytime Native Americans say they're being swept up by ICE
Jan 15, 2026
Graham Lee Brewer, a reporter for the Associated Press focusing on Tribal Nations, discusses alarming allegations of ICE detaining Oglala Sioux tribal members in Minnesota. Habon Abdulle, executive director of Ayada Leads, highlights the pervasive fear in the Somali community following threats of military deployment in Minneapolis. Maggie Mullen, a WyoFile reporter, reveals proposed deep budget cuts in Wyoming that could cripple the state’s healthcare and public university, raising concerns over economic impacts and community access to news.
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Tribal Sovereignty Versus ICE Jurisdiction
- Tribal nations assert treaty rights can place tribal citizens outside routine immigration enforcement jurisdiction.
- DHS denies detaining Oglala Sioux members, leaving a factual gap and legal tension.
Tribal IDs Used To Resist Wrongful Detention
- Tribes are urging citizens to carry tribal IDs and set up ID application sites in Minneapolis to prevent wrongful detentions.
- Elaine Miles reported ICE questioned her tribal ID, illustrating practical ID challenges in encounters.
Patterns Of Detention Across Indigenous Communities
- Native citizens report feeling targeted and harassed by ICE, mirroring other communities of color.
- Past incidents, like in Navajo Nation and Iowa, show pattern of mistaken or questionable detentions.