I was disheartened to learn of the several ICE arrests that have occurred recently on Martha’s Vineyard. As the autonomy and civil liberties of people on this Island are being called into question, I believe it is crucial that all residents and visitors of Martha’s Vineyard are equipped with clear and accessible information about their rights. I thus am writing to encourage greater local visibility of ACLU’s “Know Your Rights” resources, which are available in multiple languages and outline the rights individuals have in critical situations such as in ICE encounters.

I am a graduate of Tufts University, and my community was recently shaken by the unconstitutional arrest of a fellow student by six masked individuals who were later identified as ICE agents. The fear and confusion that followed this incident made one thing searingly clear: the abstract principles of freedom and justice mean little if unaccompanied by action.

Martha’s Vineyard is a community that prides itself on kindness, safety and unity. Making these materials more accessible whether through local libraries, community bulletin boards or in a spotlight on the Vineyard Gazette itself could make a difference in empowering individuals to protect themselves and their families.

We owe it to our neighbors to ensure they are informed and protected.

Altea Thompson

Edgartown