Community leaders and city officials in Central Ohio continue to find ways to respond to the ongoing ICE operations by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They have held meetings and press conferences with nonprofit organization leaders to educate the public on safety measures, documentation, and remaining calm.

Even faith leaders met at Greater Twelfth Baptist Church in Columbus, along with other interfaith leaders, to heighten awareness of ICE activity and inform people of their rights. State Rep Ismail Mohamed and the church’s Senior Pastor, Rev. Joseph Stanley Jr., joined forces to make the press conference happen. Rep Mohamed also helped organize the emergency community meeting on Thursday evening on the North side of Columbus.

Rep Mohamed, an immigration lawyer himself, says he is continuing to focus on educating families during challenging times by bringing together faith leaders, community leaders, and advocacy groups to provide essential resources for those affected and to the community as a whole.

Since ice operations began on December 17, 2025, reports indicate daily arrests of over 15, with a significant operation occurring throughout the city. During an emergency community meeting on 12/18, the school administration at Horizon Science Academy confirmed that agents were outside the school, questioned two educators, and later released them.

Also, due to the increased immigration crackdown, many businesses are posting flyers that read “No ICE Access” and state that entry is legally restricted. These notices inform enforcement and immigration agents. And, according to city officers responding to the operation, they will not hinder federal operations. However, they will continue to provide residents with information about their constitutional rights and encourage them to carry identification at all times.

When it comes to reports on Ice sightings, social media posts continue to suggest that agents have patrolled the parking lots at Saraga International Market, the one on Morse Rd, and the one on Hamilton, as well as other areas on the West, North, and East sides of Columbus. However, New Americans Magazine has not confirmed this. City leaders have acknowledged ongoing ICE operations, though they have not disclosed any specific locations.

In His Presence Ministries International, in conjunction with the food pantry on the North Side of Columbus, is hosting weekly food drives this holiday season to support families, and some volunteers said that this initiative is also to help families who the ice operation may impact.

Additionally, various groups, including Reynoldsburg Resistance, have held rallies. On Saturday, over 100 supporters gathered outside a Home Depot location in Columbus, holding signs urging customers to “keep ICE out of Home Depot.” “We disrupted business by slowing down checkouts and distributing flyers encouraging shoppers to support local hardware stores instead, protesting Home Depot’s cooperation with ICE in detaining immigrants,” the group said. The New Americans have not independently verified this report from Home Depot. The group says it will continue to do its part to rally and support local immigrant communities impacted by the ICE operation.

“In the past 48 hours, many have tirelessly supported families affected by ICE detentions by providing guidance and resources. Thank you to the faith leaders, city officials, and local organizations for uniting in this effort. Together, we ensure our community receives the care and support it needs during this challenging time,” said health advocate and community leader Musa.

We spoke to Dr. Kevin Hairstone, Senior Pastor at Living World Bible Fellowship, who was one of the faith leaders present at the Faith Leaders United Press Conference, and shared what measures Churches should be taking to step in to support their congregations affected by these operations.

Conference breakdown:

Faith leaders must join elected officials to ensure individuals have the resources they need to feel safe. It’s essential to advocate not just at the voting booth but also to ensure that everyone in our communities feels secure. We need to work closely with residents to help them navigate the legal system and empower them to educate themselves about it. Our mission is to stand alongside not only the Somali community but also Hispanic and other ethnic groups throughout this journey and into the future.

Resources:

Families in our congregation facing financial challenges can find support through our food pantry, housing assistance, and legal assistance for immigration-related issues. They need to know they’re not alone and that our community is here for them.

Global experience

Traveling globally has deepened my empathy and compassion. While I love my country, I recognize that we can improve in advocating for those from different backgrounds. Other countries show how we can build collaborative relationships with diverse communities. Now that these individuals are part of our country, we can work together to foster a more cooperative spirit.

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