Make Your Voice Heard on March 31

After events in South Burlington, it is clear that ICE does not make our communities safe. Their enforcement action resulted in multiple vehicle collisions, and a protracted standoff involving state law enforcement, federal agents, and hundreds of people gathered in protest.

Bystander footage shows dozens of masked state and federal agents wearing tactical gear using physical force on protesters and deploying chemical agents over the course of the afternoon and evening.

The police cannot police themselves. The actions of our own state law enforcement, as well as the lack of transparency surrounding the events of March 11, further calls into question their ability to investigate their own conduct and highlights the importance of independent civilian oversight.

We cannot allow this level of violence and chaos become the new normal in Vermont. There are multiple bills under consideration by the legislature this session that would address these kinds of dangerous attacks on our communities and hold government officials accountable for their lawless actions.

Join us at the State House for a public hearing on March 31 to make your voice heard and tell our leaders how Vermont must respond to the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign—and, what we expect from state and local law enforcement when ICE agents abuse their power and use excessive force.

The House and Senate Committees on Judiciary are holding a critical public hearing to take testimony on the community safety concerns arising from the March 11, 2026, protest and immigration enforcement in South Burlington. Your voice is essential. This is the moment to tell our legislators that we demand accountability and a Vermont that protects all its residents.

When: March 31, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Pre-hearing gathering at 4:30 p.m. in the Cedar Creek room with ACLU VT and our allies!
Where: State House (House Chamber) or virtually
Format: Each person has 2 minutes to speak.
Deadline: You must sign up by Monday, March 30, before 5:00 p.m.

Because the hearing is only two hours, we encourage community members to hold space for those most deeply affected. Direct witnesses of the events in South Burlington, and members of the immigrant community, and other impacted community members can offer firsthand accounts of their experiences, which are a critical part of this process, and we encourage community members to help ensure they have the opportunity to speak.

Choosing not to speak in person does not mean your voice is discounted. Your presence in the room provides vital strength and solidarity. And, you can submit your comments in writing via email or mail. Details for both are available in the sign-up link.

This is a moment for Vermont to decide what kind of state we want to be. Whether you are testifying in the State House, joining us virtually, or submitting your story in writing, your participation sends a powerful message that we will not be silent in the face of state-sanctioned violence. Together, we can turn this moment into a movement for lasting safety and accountability. Thank you for standing with your neighbors and for helping us build a Vermont that truly protects all its residents.