Liberty Vans: A Grassroots Response to ICE Operations

In response to intensified Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations across the United States, a coalition has launched the Liberty Vans initiative, aimed at providing support to vulnerable immigrant communities. The initiative, spearheaded by Mary Corcoran and Steve Schmidt, operates a small fleet of three vans in cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, Charlotte, and Minneapolis. Named after the WWII Liberty ships, these vans serve as mobile support units that offer legal assistance, document ICE actions, and foster community solidarity.

The Guardian

Liberty Vans are staffed by volunteers from diverse political backgrounds, including trained lawyers, faith leaders, and veterans. Their mission includes distributing essential supplies like water and snacks, sharing “know your rights” information, and documenting ICE operations through high-definition cameras. This documentation aims to hold ICE accountable for its actions, particularly in light of recent violent raids. Corcoran emphasizes the importance of this footage, stating, “These images are very powerful and they can capture a violation in a way that can galvanize the public.”

The Guardian

The initiative has garnered significant public support, with recent polling indicating that 60% of voters in Minneapolis believe ICE should withdraw from the city. Liberty Van volunteers engage with local communities at various locations, including Home Depots and grocery stores, to provide assistance and legal resources. The initiative has reportedly aided thousands of individuals in just a few months, highlighting the urgent need for support amid increasing ICE enforcement.

The Guardian

Despite the initiative's growing popularity, critics argue that it may inadvertently escalate tensions between ICE and immigrant communities. Some community members express concerns about the potential for increased scrutiny and retaliation against those who engage with the vans. However, supporters, including former California Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez, argue that the presence of veterans and clergy can foster respect and understanding, stating, “We needed to protect Latino and other immigrants with people who understand the higher calling.”

The Guardian

Corcoran and Schmidt, co-founders of the non-profit Save America Movement (Sam), view their efforts as a non-partisan fight for justice. Corcoran remarked, “Americans are waking up and realizing that there is power in protesting, organizing and mobilizing.” The initiative has also partnered with local organizations such as the National Day Laborer Network and VC Defensa to enhance its outreach and effectiveness.

The Guardian

While the Liberty Vans initiative has received positive feedback from many community members, there is a lack of formal tracking regarding the extent of their aid efforts. Additionally, discrepancies exist in public opinion regarding ICE's operations, with some polls indicating a significant decline in support for the agency, while others reflect mixed feelings among different demographic groups.

The Guardian

• “Americans are waking up and realizing that there is power in protesting, organizing and mobilizing,” — Mary Corcoran, Co-founder of Save America Movement

The Guardian

• “These images are very powerful and they can capture a violation in a way that can galvanize the public and convince people that not only are these things happening, but that they matter,” — Stephen Lee, Law Professor at UC Irvine

The Guardian

• “[The federal government] is trying to break the spirit of an entire community. It’s a psychological fight they have even with children,” — Fabian Núñez, Former Speaker of California’s Assembly

The Guardian

The Liberty Vans initiative exemplifies a grassroots response to the challenges posed by ICE operations, highlighting the intersection of community support, legal advocacy, and the urgent need for accountability in immigration enforcement.

The Guardian