On Friday, October 3, immigration advocates across the country confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has launched a nationwide operation, internally referred to as “Freaky Friday.” The targets: unaccompanied immigrant children, age 14 and older, of all nationalities.
This is not a rumor. Multiple trusted sources, including members of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), have confirmed the details.
Threat Letters: Children detained or released from custody are being issued letters warning them of indefinite detention and transfer to ICE custody once they “age out.” These letters pressure children to withdraw pending applications for relief.
Financial Incentives: Children are being offered $2,500 to voluntarily return to their countries of origin.
Threats Against Families: The letters reportedly state that if children refuse this “offer,” their parents or relatives in the U.S. may face arrest.
Age Expansion: Although initially aimed at youth aged 14 and older, the threshold may be lowered to include children as young as 10 years old.
Scope: ICE is focusing first on detained children but is also targeting those who have already been released.
Detention Plans: ICE intends to detain all “age-outs” (youth who turn 18 while in the immigration system), while anticipating significant legal challenges to this practice.
What Advocates Are Urging
Private and nonprofit legal service providers are encouraging swift action:
1. Warn Children Out of Custody: Advise youth that they may receive such a letter.
2. Provide Know Your Rights (KYR) Presentations:** Children should be told clearly that they do not have to sign anything without consulting an attorney.
3. File L-3 Forms: Where possible, advocates should file these forms for children in custody to help preserve their rights.
4. Document Coercion: If a child receives a letter, prepare a declaration documenting how it was delivered, whether counsel was present, and any signs of intimidation or coercion. These records may assist in legal challenges.
Know Your Rights
Children and families should remember the following:
Do not sign anything without speaking to an attorney.
You have the right to refuse under pressure or coercion.
You may be eligible for protection under U.S. law.
Moving Forward
As this situation develops, AILA and immigration advocates will continue to monitor reports and provide updates. Families and service providers should remain alert, ensure children know their rights, and document any encounters with ICE related to this operation.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Protect our youth.
