ICE Concern Update 01/29/2025

The Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council provides this update to the Tribal Membership to address the concerns and anxieties arising from ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) activities across the nation. We understand and validate the fear this may generate among our youth, elders, and community, particularly given the current climate surrounding immigration and any contact with ICE agents. The Tribe’s current and ongoing engagement with ICE has been focused and responsive to these issues through our Justice & Regulatory Department being in regular communication with ICE agents regarding any activity on the Reservation.
Through those conversations, we have been informed that current ICE efforts are focused on undocumented individuals who have committed serious crimes, have an existing deportation order, and pose a potential risk to our community. Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our Tribal community. We strongly advise Tribal Members who reside on or off the Reservation to carry their forms of identification with them such as a Tribal ID and at least one (1) other form of identification, such as a driver’s license.
Protecting and upholding the rights of our Tribal Members, sovereignty, and Reservation remains our utmost priority. We understand that various Tribal Nations are sharing letters, tips, and updates. While we appreciate and acknowledge these shared resources, our updates will be specific to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, taking into consideration our unique features such as land status, location, and other relevant factors. We appreciate your understanding and stand committed with our Tribal Members during this time.
Should you have any concerns regarding ICE activities on the Southern Ute Reservation, please contact Justice & Regulatory Acting Director, Mr. Elliott Salazar, at 970-563-2801 or Chief Michael Barrow, Southern Ute Police Department, at 970-563-2811. You may also contact Tribal Council Affairs Office Manager, Mrs. Sunshine Whyte, at 970-563-2319.
Respectfully,

Chairman Melvin J. Baker, Vice Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose, Treasurer James M. Olguin, Council Member Marjorie Barry, Council Member Andrew Gallegos, Council Member Linda K. Baker, and Council Member Marty Pinnecoose