Navajo Nation leaders are sounding the alarm after reports that at least 15 Indigenous people in Arizona and New Mexico were stopped, questioned, or detained by federal law enforcement during recent immigration raids. The individuals were asked to provide proof of citizenship, even though they were reportedly on their own land.

The incidents, which began earlier this week, have caused widespread fear and anger in tribal communities. Officials say the raids are part of a broader effort to increase undocumented immigrant arrests across the country. While the exact number of people affected is still being investigated, the Navajo Nation has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security and local governors for answers.

One tribal member in Phoenix was reportedly questioned after being caught up in a raid, despite presenting their tribal ID. They were eventually released, but the experience has left many worried. “There’s a lot of fear and frustration,” said Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley. “People don’t feel safe in the country where they were born.”

In another case, a Navajo woman was reportedly lined up with seven other Indigenous people at her workplace in Scottsdale, Arizona, and questioned for two hours. She was allowed to leave only after her family sent a photo of her Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB). What happened to the others remains unclear.

Indigenous leaders have criticized the raids as deeply disrespectful, especially given the history of colonization in the U.S. “These lands have been a melting pot for many ethnicities,” said Arizona State Sen. Theresa Hatathlie. “Who are you to classify our Indigenous people?”

In response, the Navajo Nation has issued guidance for those who might encounter immigration agents. They’re urging people to carry state-issued IDs along with their tribal documents, but many say officers have ignored these forms of identification. Operation Rainbow Bridge, a nonprofit, has also launched an initiative to assist those impacted by the raids.

The events have reopened old wounds for Indigenous communities, who’ve endured centuries of displacement and cultural suppression. “No one is illegal on stolen land,” said Diné elder James Jackson. “This is not the way to live or to be honorable and neighborly with each other.”

As the situation unfolds, Navajo Nation officials are calling for greater respect and understanding from federal authorities. “These initiatives of the current administration are a huge step backwards,” said Hatathlie. “We’ve come a long way, but this is a reminder of how much work remains.”