Guidelines
Above all, we are committed to nonviolence.
• We stand peacefully with signs outside the facility.
• We do not block the entrance, approach ICE agents, or block traffic on District Ave.
• We do not stand in restricted areas as designated by Burlington police.
• We do not engage with "counter protestors," those who are supporters of ICE.
Signs
Please bring signs specifically about supporting immigrants and the Constitution, and/or expressing shame at ICE, or borrow a sign available for the day. This is a very targeted action outside the ICE facility, so it's not the venue for protesting other causes. Even though we care deeply about other issues, while outside ICE we must remain focused on immigration. Our goal is to come together across any political differences to show our collective support for immigrants and their rights.
Interactions
Immigrants who are fortunate to leave the facility have shown gratitude for our presence and some share their stories with us.
• ICE agents tend to cover their faces with masks, many record us with their phones, others give a satisfied
smile or laugh, though they rarely say anything.
• The security officers stationed at the front of the building have not bothered us to date.
• Passersby from nearby businesses often thank us for being there, and many have shared that they never
knew that the building at 1000 District Avenue was an ICE facility.
Safety and Comfort
Marshalls in fluorescent vests are scattered throughout the crowd. If you encounter a problem, seek out a marshall (trained standout organizer). There are medics on hand in blue fluorescent vests. They have water, snacks, hand warmers, and first aid kits.
Before arriving, please consider your own self-preservation (citizenship status) and self-care (sunscreen, hydration, etc.). There are restaurants nearby (Clover, Pressed Cafe, Chipotle).
Parking
The AMC 10 Movie Theater (20 South Avenue, Burlington) has given us permission to park in their lot, which is a 0.8 mile walk to the ICE facility. Here is a map with safe walking directions.
The 350 bus runs from the Alewife T stop to Burlington Mall Rd. The stop you want is "Burlington Mall Road opposite NE Executive Park, which is the intersection of Mall Road and District Avenue.
If you prefer a shorter bus ride, you can drive to Burlington and park at United Church of Christ (6 Lexington St., Burlington) or Temple Shalom Emeth (16 Lexington St., Burlington) and walk to the 350 bus stop at the intersection of Cambridge St. and Bedford St.
Please note that you do run the risk of getting towed when parking in any private lots along District Avenue or at The Burlington Mall.
Photography and Video Recording
Attendees should be aware that Bearing Witness standouts are held in a public space. Photographers and videographers capture images and videos at each standout. Those uncomfortable with being photographed or recorded may want to consider a variety of other ways to help immigrants. Please visit the homepage of this website and scroll to the "Links to Helpful Resources" section for more information.
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