Full Breakdown
Brown University Student Labor Organizers Launch Chaperone Program to Protect Noncitizens
11/25/2025, 1:36:24 PM
Overview of the Chaperone Program
In response to increasing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Rhode Island, student labor organizers at Brown University, represented by RIFT-AFT Local 6516, are set to launch a "walking chaperone" program. This initiative aims to train student volunteers to escort noncitizens between campus locations and nearby sites, thereby providing a protective measure against potential ICE enforcement actions. The program was announced following a protest against ICE presence on College Hill, highlighting the community's concerns regarding immigration enforcement.
Background and Context
The chaperone program is inspired by the efforts of the Deportation Defense Network of Rhode Island, which includes local organizations such as the Alliance to Mobilize Our Resistance, the Olneyville Neighborhood Association, and the Party for Socialism and Liberation R.I. This network has been actively involved in monitoring ICE activities, particularly around courthouses, where they have established a volunteer patrol to alert individuals about ICE presence and provide support.
Key Figures Involved
Victoria Antonetti, the vice president of Local 6516, emphasized the program's goal to combat ICE activity within the Brown community. Maya Lehrer, an organizer with the Deportation Defense Network, noted that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to protect vulnerable community members. Adit Sabnis, the Chair of Communications for Local 6516, acknowledged the limitations of the program, stating, “We can’t prevent ICE from coming here,” but expressed hope that it would alleviate fears among noncitizens.
Recent Developments
The chaperone program is expected to operate on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., contingent on recruiting sufficient volunteers. Training sessions for volunteers are scheduled to resume early next semester. The initiative follows a recent incident on November 20, where volunteers identified ICE activity near the Rhode Island Superior Courthouse, prompting a demonstration to raise awareness among courthouse visitors.
Criticism & Opposition
While the chaperone program aims to provide support, some critics argue that such initiatives may not fully address the systemic issues surrounding immigration enforcement. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of volunteer-based programs in the face of federal policies that prioritize immigration enforcement.
Official Statements & Responses
Union leaders have expressed their commitment to creating a safer environment for noncitizens. Adit Sabnis stated, “We hope to make graduate student employees less scared to go about their daily lives.” The initiative has garnered support from various local organizations, reinforcing the collaborative effort to protect noncitizens in the community.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are trying to get the word out,” — EJ Toppin GS, Graduate Labor Organization Chair for Social Justice and Accountability
- “Honestly, [the tariffs] seem to be serving the billionaire class, and not the working class,” — John Palmer, International Vice President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters
- “We had volunteers on the ground warning people coming in and out” — Yosan Alemu GS, GLO Steward
This chaperone program represents a proactive approach by Brown University students to address the challenges faced by noncitizens in the current political climate, aiming to foster a sense of safety and community support amidst heightened immigration enforcement.
