Native Americans carry tribal IDs after ICE operations

After recent immigration enforcement activity in Minneapolis, many Native Americans have been obtaining and carrying tribal identification cards while several tribes are easing access to those IDs.

Enforcement activity by U.S. immigration agents in Minneapolis prompted many Native Americans to carry tribal identification cards as proof of citizenship. In response, dozens of tribal nations have made it easier to get tribal IDs by waiving fees, lowering eligibility ages and issuing cards more quickly. Tribal photo IDs have been used for years for tribal elections, work eligibility and domestic travel. Tribal leaders and staff set up pop-up events in urban areas to help members obtain or renew cards. Key facts: - Dozens of federally recognized tribes are easing access to tribal identification by waiving fees and speeding issuance. - Urban Native residents travelled to or attended local pop-up events to apply for or renew tribal IDs. - Some Native people reported being stopped or detained by immigration agents, and the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment. - Tribal IDs have long served administrative and travel purposes and are now being carried more widely as proof of citizenship. Summary: Demand for tribal identification has increased as tribes respond to community concerns and organize issuance events. How federal enforcement practices or official policies about tribal IDs will change is undetermined at this time.