ICE’s Actions and Our Constitutional Rights

Grade Level: 10-12

Time: 60 Minutes

Essential Question

Do ICE’s actions in Minnesota and elsewhere violate people’s First and Fourth Constitutional rights and if so, how?

About This Lesson

In late 2025 and early 2026, ICE’s (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) “Operation Metro Surge” took place in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. The purpose of this “surge” was to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants as part of ICE's larger efforts nationwide. There was a great deal of media attention on what happened in Minnesota, not only because several people–including Renee Good and Alex Preti– were shot and killed by ICE agents, but there were ongoing allegations that what the federal government was doing violates people’s constitutional rights. In this lesson, students will explore and understand the First and Fourth amendments, connect those constitutional rights to the actions of ICE and reflect on the roles different people can play in challenging these actions.