City of Gary Stands with Residents; Emphasizes Safety and Unity in Response to ICE in NWI.

GARY, IN – Mayor Eddie Melton today issued a statement to the residents of Gary, Indiana, following reports of increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in surrounding communities. The Mayor urged all residents to remain calm, prioritize safety, and be informed of their rights.

"The presence of federal ICE agents in our region is unsettling and causes significant concern within our community," Mayor Melton stated. "I want to be unequivocally clear: my administration does not support the efforts or condone the actions of ICE raids that target our friends, family, and neighbors because of their race and ethnicity."

Mayor Melton acknowledged the limitations of the local police department: "While the Gary Police Department cannot legally interfere with the operations of a federal agency, our commitment remains to the safety and civil rights of every person who calls Gary home. Our police officers are here to protect all residents and enforce local laws, and they will continue to serve our community with dignity and respect for all people."

Mayor Melton invoked the city’s deep history as a bastion for civil rights. "Gary is a city built on the foundation of the fight for human dignity and civil rights.”

Guidelines for Resident Safety

Here is the following guidance for residents:

• Prioritize Safety: Remain calm and do not engage in confrontation. Your personal safety is the most important thing.

• Know Your Rights: Everyone in the United States, regardless of immigration status, has rights under the Constitution. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney.

• Do Not Open the Door: Unless agents show you, a warrant signed by a judge with your name and address, you are not required to open your door to federal agents.

• Seek Legal Aid: If you or someone you know is detained, please reach out immediately to local legal aid and advocacy organizations for assistance.

"We are an inclusive city, and we stand in solidarity with our diverse communities," Mayor Melton concluded. "Our strength lies in our unity and our unwavering commitment to justice. Please look out for one another and let us continue to work together to ensure Gary remains a safe and dignified home for all."

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Contact:

Steve Segura, Chief Communications Officer

City of Gary

stsegura@gary.gov

(219) 806-6489

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