The Nisei Farmers League is raising concerns about reported U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Central Valley agricultural fields and will hold a news conference Friday, Oct. 9 in Fresno to address potential impacts on farmers, farmworkers and local businesses.
According to a statement from the organization, the league and other groups have received videos and reports in recent days showing ICE agents entering agricultural fields, prompting questions about compliance with federal laws governing immigration enforcement on farms.
Concerns over federal protections
The Nisei Farmers League cited provisions of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 that established protections against immigration officers entering agricultural premises without proper authorization.
Under the law, immigration officers generally must obtain consent from the owner or a properly executed warrant before entering outdoor agricultural operations to question individuals about their immigration status.
The Nisei Farmers League is calling on ICE to comply with those requirements and respect the rights of farmers, farmworkers and surrounding communities.
The reports described by the organization have not been independently verified.
The statement did not identify specific farms where the reported activity occurred.
Impact on Central Valley families and businesses
Beyond questions about enforcement procedures, the Nisei Farmers League said immigration activity is disrupting everyday life in agricultural communities.
The organization said some parents are keeping children home from school, while families are avoiding medical appointments and grocery shopping because of concerns surrounding immigration enforcement.
The league characterized the situation as harmful to families and businesses that depend on the stability of the region’s agricultural workforce.
In its statement, the organization also said it understands ICE may remain in the area for 45 days. That timeline has not been independently confirmed.
