CLEVELAND — The Ohio Immigration Alliance has been actively running an immigration hotline for the past 14 months, logging nearly 550 cases across the state. This initiative aims to address rising concerns among immigrant communities amid escalated enforcement actions.
Founded in 2007 by Lynn Tramonte, who currently serves as the executive director, the Ohio Immigration Alliance aims to foster collaboration between immigrants and native-born Ohioans, ultimately creating a safer environment for all residents. Community members can connect with hotline responders through phone or email, communicating in any language they prefer.
Tramonte, who previously handled hotline inquiries during the Trump administration, emphasized that a comprehensive system is now in place to ensure secure and confidential communication. Individuals can reach out via calls, texts, or emails around the clock, making the hotline a crucial resource for many in the immigrant community.
The hotline serves as a vital support system, frequently receiving reports regarding ICE and Border Patrol activities, along with concerns about local police collaboration with federal agents. Its report, “Connecting Ohio: First Year of the Ohio Immigration Hotline,” notes a range of incidents—from reports of ICE arrests to inquiries from detainees in county jails and requests for community resources or legal aid.
Challenges Faced by Detainees
Tramonte highlighted alarming issues faced by individuals detained by ICE, including a lack of access to medication for chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and cancer, leading to fears of severe health consequences. Reports also indicate instances of violence from guards, as well as concerns regarding extended periods in solitary confinement. Last year, Giaga County acknowledged its practice of housing inmates alongside ICE detainees during a facility tour, prompting lawmakers to voice their apprehensions about the health and safety conditions in local correctional facilities.
Many individuals arrested by ICE remain hesitant to share their experiences publicly due to fears of retaliation. Tramonte elaborated that arrests occur weekly in Cleveland and sometimes even within ICE offices, yet these incidents often go unreported as individuals strive to protect themselves from further repercussions.
Surge in Hotline Calls During Enforcement Operations
The Ohio Immigration Alliance observed a notable uptick in hotline activity during the holiday season, coinciding with a federal immigration enforcement operation known as “Operation Buckeye.” More than 280 arrests were recorded during this operation by the Department of Homeland Security. Tramonte noted that hotline inquiries spiked during this period, and the volume of calls has remained high as ICE activities continue across major cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.
In December, ICE publicly acknowledged its heightened presence in Ohio. ICE Director Todd Lyons stated that their operations focus on detaining individuals involved in drug trafficking, domestic violence, and other criminal activities, many of whom lack legal permission to reside in the U.S. OIA reports that a significant portion of those arrested belongs to the Latino community, though not all individuals detained are undocumented.
Collaborative Efforts for Immigrant Support
The Interfaith Task Force on Central America and Colombia (IRTF), which has been active for 45 years, collaborates with the Ohio Immigration Alliance and other organizations to provide resources that promote immigrant rights. The group’s executive director, who preferred to remain anonymous for safety reasons, emphasized a collective approach to achieving immigrant justice and working alongside various community organizations.
IRTF offers a broad spectrum of services, including “Know Your Rights” training, rapid response teams, and courtroom escorts to navigate the legal system. Cleveland is home to the state’s only immigration court, so the organization facilitates accommodations for individuals traveling from other cities to attend court hearings.
Community Advocacy and Future Initiatives
Beyond immediate assistance, the IRTF aims to support marginalized communities, acknowledging that not only immigrants are targeted, but also Native Americans and U.S. citizens facing discrimination. They believe in collective action as a means to foster safety and support among affected communities.
Tramonte indicated that the demand for hotline services will likely persist, but the alliance remains committed to providing support as needed. To sustain these efforts, the organization has developed a sponsorship program that allows the public to contribute to the hotline’s operational costs.
Looking ahead, IRTF plans to host a public event at Cleveland State University to disseminate information and distribute mutual aid supplies to local residents. Additionally, the Ohio Immigration Alliance anticipates releasing two forthcoming reports addressing ICE detention policies and local advocacy strategies developed during the Trump administration.
