Parkside Neighborhood Association

Parkside Stands Together: Community Safety & Action

Parkside Stands Together

 
 

We Will Not Be Intimidated.

Earlier this week, the PNA Board wrote to affirm our values as a welcoming community. Since then, the situation has escalated. In light of confirmed federal operations in our neighborhood—including the detention of valid visa holders and parents—the PNA Board is moving from affirmation to action.

Below is our official statement and a list of resources for neighbors who want to help.

PNA STATEMENT: STANDING TOGETHER IN PARKSIDE

(January 26, 2026)

Parkside is a "United Nations" of the world. Our diversity is our strength.

Starting this week, federal agents deployed for mass deportation attacked that strength, taking young people and neighbors from our streets.

Plainly, this is political violence. These agents are acting like paramilitary units to create fear and control. Do not believe their lies. This threat endangers everyone—but we are not helpless.

To Our Immigrant Neighbors:

You are the heart of Parkside. You belong here. We will not abandon you.

To All Neighbors:

You have power. Use it. We ask you to be unyielding.

  • Hold the Line: You have a legal right to witness. If you see agents, do not retreat. Stand tall, observe, and be seen. Your presence proves we are not afraid.

  • Record as Resistance: Make them work in the light. Record every action. Remove their secrecy and show the world what is happening.

  • Mobilize: We are the safety net. Check on neighbors who may be afraid to leave home. If a neighbor is in trouble or in need, alert the community immediately.

To City and State Officials:

Continue to stand with us. Do not let these political forces use our streets to attack our families.

We join Bayside and the whole city. We are stronger than fear.

We stand with our neighbors. We stand for Parkside.

Resources & How to Help

1. Report Activity

If you witness federal agents or detentions in progress, call the Hotline immediately. Please record video if safe to do so, but keep a safe distance.

ICE Hotline: 207-544-9989

How to Report (The SALUTE Protocol)

If you see agents, use this format to provide clear, useful information to the Hotline:

  • Size: How many agents?

  • Activity: What are they doing?

  • Location: Be as specific as possible.

  • Unit: What agencies/uniforms are identifiable?

  • Time: Time and date.

  • Equipment: Vehicle descriptions, license plates, weapons.

Community Alerts (Make Noise)

  • Whistles:

    • 3 Short, Quick Whistles: ICE is nearby.

    • 3 Long, Strong Whistles: Detention/Abduction in progress.

  • Vehicles: Honk your horn or set off your car alarm if you see operations in the neighborhood to alert neighbors.

2. Volunteer Needs

Sacred Heart Food Pantry Due to recent events, the pantry is short on volunteers.

  • When: Tuesdays, 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM

  • Where: Sacred Heart Church (Mellen & Sherman St.)

  • Action: Show up to assist with food distribution.

Safe Passage for Students Many children are fearful of walking to school. Community volunteers are organizing to assist with safe passage to King Middle and Reiche. Please email us to get involved. Click here: Email PNA to Volunteer

3. Support Our Partners

We defer to the experts leading this fight. Please support these organizations directly:

Hope Acts Providing housing, English classes, and transition support for asylum seekers. Click here: Support Hope Acts

ILAP (Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project) Maine’s primary provider of free legal aid to immigrants. Click here: Support ILAP

Bayside Neighborhood Association See additional resources from our partners in Bayside. Click here: Bayside Resources

4. Know Your Rights

Regardless of your immigration status, you have rights under the U.S. Constitution.

  • Do not open your door unless agents have a warrant signed by a judge.

  • You have the right to remain silent.

  • You have the right to a lawyer.