UPDATE: The shocking death of Renee Nicole Good, a Minneapolis woman shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent on Wednesday, has sent shockwaves across the nation, igniting urgent fears among Bay Area immigrant-rights advocates. Legal observers are now alarmed that similar incidents could occur in their communities, as they continue to monitor federal immigration enforcement.
The incident that led to Good’s death raises critical questions about the treatment of individuals by ICE agents. Members of the Santa Clara County Rapid Response Network, a coalition dedicated to providing support and documenting ICE activities, are on high alert. Yesenia Campos, a volunteer with the organization, was herself detained by ICE just days ago on October 30 while observing agents in San Jose.
“At that moment, I was simply collecting contact information for families of individuals being detained,” Campos recounted at a press conference on Thursday. “When I didn’t step back quickly enough, I was detained. This experience shows just how unpredictable and dangerous these encounters can be.”
Advocates emphasize their role as strictly observational, aiming to document and record interactions between ICE agents and community members. According to EmilyRose Johns, president of the National Lawyers Guild San Francisco Bay Area chapter, “A legal observer is someone who intends to document police behavior, and this right is protected by the Constitution.”
The urgency of this work was highlighted by the circumstances of Good’s death. Initial statements from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem labeled Good a “domestic terrorist,” claiming she attempted to run over an ICE agent. However, video evidence captured by bystanders contradicts this narrative, showing an ICE agent approaching her vehicle and firing shots as it began to move.
Johns stated, “The videos documenting this tragic event are crucial in dispelling false narratives put forth by the federal government.” She added that without the presence of legal observers, securing justice for Good’s family would be exceedingly difficult.
The death of Good has intensified fears over intimidation tactics employed by ICE against those who monitor their actions. Stephanie Jayne, another member of the Santa Clara County Rapid Response Network, reported that ICE agents have targeted her while she was performing observational work. “This intimidation is intentional,” Jayne said. “It’s meant to instill fear, but we will continue to show up.”
The Bay Area community is urged to remain vigilant and supportive. “You don’t need to be fearless to be a responder,” Jayne concluded. “What you need is a commitment to stand against injustice.”
As the situation develops, the need for legal observers has never been more pressing. Advocates are calling on residents to engage with their communities, document ICE encounters, and ensure that families have the support they need during enforcement actions. The ripple effects of Good’s death extend far beyond Minnesota, serving as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by those who seek to protect the rights of immigrants.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
