Whistle Resistance
Chicago has emerged as a leading anti-ICE organizer. Their neighborhood watches run smoothly and are innovating resistance.
One of the simplest actions you can take is to help organize whistle brigades. We’re including links to the resources below, and will add contact information for local groups as we find them.
How to do it:
The basic idea is simple: outfit people with whistles and simple instructions. If they see ICE, they blow the whistle in short bursts. If they see a deportation effort underway, blow continuously. If you are a vulnerable person and hear whistles, get to safety. If you are a citizen with privilege, move towards the whistles and “Form a crowd, stay loud.” Because ICE will sometimes target observers for detention or violence, we are labeling this a YELLOW action, but there are green ways to support it. We want to get this up and running before ICE spreads, so find a local group or start your own!
Spread the word:
- Print flyers to post wherever you can. (Here is a Canva template to adapt to your region)
- Share social media posts, news stories, or this page so others hear about this grass roots effort to make sure ICE always gets a loud welcome.
Make whistle packs:
- Print Zines in English and Spanish
- Instructions for how to fold a ‘zine
- Get biodegradable cellophane bags at least 3″x5″ in size. Support a local cake or candy supply store, or order online. e.g. Nashville Wraps
- Buy whistles in bulk at local sporting, workwear or office supply stores, or buy online. e.g. SOS Products or Staples
- Or 3D PRINT whistles
- Distribute the packs at trainings, friendly businesses, etc.
The brilliance in this action is its simplicity. Throw a party to fold ‘zines and package with whistles, and you’re ready! Spread the word to build our power. This is a great action for people who want to stop ICE, but don’t see themselves getting into direct confrontation. There is safety in crowds.
More options:
- get your craft group 3D printing whistles for as little as $0.05/whistle : Patterns
- Join WAND to encourage businesses to put up anti-ICE flyers.
- Offer transportation: collect materials or distribute whistle-packs
- wear a whistle and talk about what it’s for. Carry zines or business cards with you.
- Throw a packing party, or contribute resources to one.
Local Resources : a running list of regional options
- WA Whistle Warriors is organizing in Washington. They run weekly trainings in Seattle where printed whistles can also be dropped off.
- In Chicago, connect with the Pilsen Art Collective who created most of these materials
- NOTE : if you are in a different area and want to get started, contact either of these groups. Chicago trained Seattle, and Seattle is friendly and responsive to questions.
