Absentee Shawnee tribal leadership responds after citizens report harassment by ICE

The Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma is responding after citizens reported incidents of harassment from federal agents, according to tribal leadership.

In a statement from Gov. John R. Johnson, Johnson says amid the federal government’s efforts to deport undocumented immigrants, federal officers have “begun to approach, question and even detain Tribal Members in Oklahoma.”

Johnson’s statement says Tribal Members were accosted by officers using unconstitutional racial profiling techniques, and also says there is no reasonable basis, suspicion, or probable cause to restrict the liberties of Native Americans based on skin color, hair color, eye color or a lack of identification.

“Just because a Native American may resemble, superficially, a migrant from Central or South America, that does not mean that federal officers have the right to approach,” Johnson’s statement says. “These prejudicial activities are being carried out by Immigration Customs and Enforcement, but our Members should expect either cooperation from state and local law enforcement agencies with ICE; and/or a complete adoption of these policies and procedures.”

Johnson’s statement also included recommendations for Tribal members who do encounter ICE or other law enforcement, including their rights under the U.S. Constitution, and also calling upon Tribal Members to contact Tribal leadership to report encounters with federal officers.

“This is an ongoing predicament for Indian Country, which will continue to evolve,” Johnson’s statement said. “If you or someone you know has been forced to interact with a federal officer and/or agent regarding your citizenship, immediately contact my office or the offices of any other Executive Committee Members.”

Griffin Media has reached out to ICE for comment, but has not yet received a response.