Zohran Mamdani, the mayor-elect of New York City, released a video message advising undocumented immigrants on how to respond to encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This guidance follows a recent ICE raid in Chinatown that was interrupted by protests.

Mamdani emphasized his commitment to protecting the rights of the over 3 million immigrants residing in New York City. In his video, he stated, "As mayor, I’ll protect the rights of every single New Yorker. And that includes the more than 3 million immigrants who call this city their home."

He outlined specific rights that individuals have when confronted by ICE agents, including the right to refuse entry to private spaces without a judicial warrant. Mamdani displayed a sample of such a warrant and explained that ICE agents may present non-binding legal documents instead. He encouraged individuals to assert their rights, stating, "You have the right to say, ‘I do not consent to entry,’ and the right to keep your door closed."

Mamdani also noted that individuals have the right to remain silent and to ask if they are free to leave if detained. He highlighted the legality of filming ICE activities, provided it does not interfere with arrests, and reaffirmed the constitutional right to protest, pledging to protect this right as mayor.

The video has drawn criticism from conservative commentators, particularly in light of anticipated tensions with the Trump administration regarding immigration enforcement policies. Some critics accused Mamdani of undermining immigration laws, while supporters argue that his approach reflects a commitment to the rights and dignity of immigrant communities.

The recent ICE raid in Chinatown involved nearly 200 protesters who successfully obstructed the agency's operations, marking the second significant raid in the area within a short period. This context underscores the ongoing conflict between local advocacy for immigrant rights and federal immigration enforcement actions.