Recent reports indicate that Asheville, North Carolina, may be a target for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol raids. In response, local community members are mobilizing proactively, reflecting a spirit of resilience and solidarity reminiscent of their previous responses to crises, such as Hurricane Helene. Organizations like The Orange Peel and BeLoved Asheville have initiated food drives and support systems for families affected by recent cuts to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, emphasizing mutual aid and community care.

This community response aligns with a broader trend observed in other cities facing similar threats. In Chicago, for example, a teenager named Ivan has taken it upon himself to patrol his neighborhood, documenting suspicious activity and providing support to those at risk of deportation. Initiatives like Whistlemania have emerged, distributing whistle kits and Know Your Rights pamphlets to empower residents against ICE actions.

In Portland, unconventional protests have surfaced as a form of resistance against federal agents, utilizing creativity to shift the narrative surrounding activism. These actions have garnered media attention and demonstrated community strength in the face of federal enforcement.

On November 19, 2025, a confrontation occurred in St. Paul, Minnesota, where protesters attempted to intervene during an ICE operation. The situation escalated when a woman approached agents questioning their actions, leading to her physical restraint. This incident reflects ongoing protests against ICE operations, highlighting the contentious nature of immigration enforcement in the U.S. and the complex dynamics between law enforcement and activist groups.

In Charlotte, North Carolina, a federal immigration operation resulted in the arrest of over 200 individuals, raising concerns among the immigrant population about safety and community trust. Residents report feeling increasingly vulnerable, indicating a climate of fear regarding potential further enforcement actions.

Meanwhile, the Hillsboro City Council in Oregon, designated as a sanctuary city, declared a state of emergency on the same day due to escalating ICE actions. This resolution, influenced by community apprehension, criticizes the enforcement tactics that have instilled fear within the community. Mayor Beach Pace acknowledged the resolution's symbolic nature but noted it responds to significant public pressure. Community members expressed concerns about ICE agents operating without proper identification and detaining individuals without warrants, which undermines democratic norms.

In response to these concerns, Hillsboro has allocated $200,000 for grants to support families and businesses affected by federal enforcement actions. However, residents are advocating for more substantial changes, including the establishment of a civil and human rights office and collaboration with community organizations to monitor the effects of federal enforcement. The resolution reaffirms Hillsboro's commitment to the Oregon Sanctuary Promise Act, ensuring that city resources will not be used to enforce federal immigration laws.