Free teaching resources about ICE

Published 27 February 2026

About this lesson

From December 2025 to January 2026, the US state of Minnesota drew international attention after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deployed thousands of agents to arrest undocumented immigrants. Allegations of aggressive enforcement tactics and two reported fatalities led to protests and widespread controversy. Following weeks of criticism, more than 1,000 federal agents were withdrawn from the state.

How should sensitive stories be reported and discussed?

To support teaching and discussion of this topic, you may also find these external resources useful:

Junior audience: Students talk about their feelings towards ICE
Senior audience: ICE explained: What powers do its agents have?

These resources are free to access, although you may need to create an account. Please note that these external websites are not affiliated with The Economist Educational Foundation.

Skills and knowledge

Speaking

Step 9: Sharing visuals
I use images, charts or diagrams when it helps my communication
Did you use the images to help discuss what they had in common?
Step 10: Speaking engagingly
I talk about difficult or sensitive topics effectively
Did you talk sensitively when you discussed the facts?
Step 14: Constructive communicating
I maintain clear and constructive communication in challenging situations
Did you use the ABC structure to help you have clear and constructive conversations?
Knowledge

I know that ICE is a federal immigration agency and it has caused controversy.
What are some of the facts and opinions about ICE?