Vermont Business Magazine Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak today issued a statement addressing community concerns related to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity reported in Vermont and across the country, affirming the City of Burlington’s commitment to public safety, transparency, and support for immigrant and refugee residents.
“What we are seeing unfold in cities like Minneapolis and elsewhere is shocking and deeply unsettling,” said Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak. “This is an unprecedented moment that demands both preparation and solidarity. Burlington stands firmly with our immigrant and refugee communities, and we will do everything within our authority to support you and keep you safe.”
City officials have confirmed that ICE has been active in Burlington and other parts of Vermont in recent months. As is common practice nationally, local and state officials are not formally notified when ICE activity increases. Despite this lack of transparency from ICE, the city is planning ahead to ensure coordinated communication and resident support should activity escalate.
Because ICE operations are not publicly disclosed, rumors and unverified reports may circulate. The city takes all reports seriously and works quickly to verify information. Once confirmed, updates will be shared with the public through official City channels, including a newly launched webpage dedicated to ICE-related information and resources. The city understands that there is a rumor circulating about an upcoming ICE surge in Burlington; as of today, we have credible information that disputes this rumor.
City officials urge residents to avoid sharing unverified information, which can increase fear and divert emergency resources. Residents are encouraged to report rumors or sightings through the ICE Tracker operated by the Vermont Asylum Assistance Project and Migrant Justice. Calls to 911 or police dispatch should be reserved for health, safety, or other emergencies.
Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak is convening emergency meetings with City leadership, including Police Chief Shawn Burke and Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Michael Curtin. The city is coordinating closely with the Burlington School District, City Council, community partners, immigrant and refugee community leaders, state officials, and mayors across the region and country.
Burlington Police Department Policy
The Burlington Police Department (BPD) has operated under a Fair and Impartial Policing (FIP) policy since 2010, a standard now mandated statewide. This policy prohibits officers from making enforcement decisions based on characteristics such as race, religion, or immigration status.
Under Vermont law, local police do not participate in federal civil immigration enforcement, except in very limited circumstances required by law. While BPD officers do not assist ICE with civil enforcement actions, they are legally prohibited from interfering with ICE operations. In such situations, BPD’s role is limited to maintaining public safety and securing a scene. BPD and the Burlington Fire Department will also provide medical assistance to anyone in need.
ICE agents do not have a standard uniform and may wear clothing labeled “police.” BPD officers will always wear official department uniforms and badges. Residents may ask BPD officers for their name and badge number, which officers are required to provide.
Information and Resources
The city has launched a dedicated webpage to share verified updates, press releases, and resources related to ICE activity. Information will be shared through the city website, the mayor’s email list, Front Porch Forum, social media, and local media outlets. Translated materials will be provided as available.
Residents can also access “Know Your Rights” resources through the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, the Vermont Language Justice Project, and the Vermont Asylum Assistance Project.
- Vermont Attorney General’s Guide to Your Rights when Encountering ICE (in English and Spanish)
- Vermont Language Justice Project videos (multiple languages and multiple topics)
- Vermont Asylum Assistance Project Resource Library
“Burlington has always met difficult moments by standing together,” said Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak. “I have full faith that we will do so again.”
For more information, visit the city’s webpage.
1.30.2026. BURLINGTON, VT – Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak
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