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Press Release

Navajo Nation addressing concerns with ICE

  • The Navajo Division for Children and Family Services understands that there have been concerns with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by Diné people. The Navajo Nation encourages all citizens to stay informed about ICE activities and to know their rights.

    The Navajo Nation has deployed several divisions and offices to address issues related to ICE through Operation Rainbow Bridge.

    The ORB toll free telephone number was reactivated in December due to continued concerns with ICE from the Navajo people. The hotline is closely monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by Navajo Nation staff. The hotline includes options for immigration, missing persons, Navajo Nation Human Rights Office, Vital Records, and Reclaiming Relatives/Medicaid Fraud. Reports may also be made by email to info@operationrainbowbridge.com.

    Once a call is received, the Office of the President and Vice President, Office of the Human Rights Commission, Office of Vital Records, the Navajo Department of Health, and/or the Division of Public Safety will respond based on the issue. The team will follow up on tips and reports.

    We ask that the public take this issue seriously and not make prank calls to the phone number.

    The following are tips if a Navajo person gets stopped or detained by ICE:

    • Carry a state-issued photo identification at all times. The best identification to have is a Real ID, which has a star in the upper right-hand corner. If you do not have an identification, a passport can be used to verify identity.
    • Memorize the Operation Rainbow Bridge contact information. The telephone number is 1-855-HELPORB or 1-855-435-7672. Call the hotline if you are detained or stopped.
    • If you are stopped and/or questioned, do not escalate the situation. Comply with law enforcement.
    • You may be held until law enforcement determines citizenship status.
    • Document the encounter if possible. Note important information such as names, times, and other relevant details.
    • Report the encounter. You may report the encounter through our Operation Rainbow Bridge website.
    • Make sure your information is updated with the Office of Navajo Nation Vital Records.
    • Be aware that a Certificate of Indian Blood will likely not be accepted as a form of identification at this time.

    More information can be found at https://operationrainbowbridge.com.