As societal tensions rise, fitness establishments are increasingly preparing for the possibility of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. A leaked memo from the gym chain Barry’s, which caters primarily to a high-end LGBTQ+ clientele, has sparked considerable outrage and discussion on social media platforms.
The memo, widely shared on forums like Reddit, outlines specific protocols for instructors to follow during an ICE raid. Among its seven directives, it instructs instructors to remain calm, halt classes, and stay at the front of the room. A crucial instruction emphasizes that instructors should “not take responsibility for anybody other than yourself.”
Understanding the implications of the memo
The memo also specifies that communication with ICE and gym patrons will be managed by the studio leader, indicating a serious approach to a distressing scenario. This detail suggests that gym staff are being prepared to manage encounters with federal agents effectively.
A viral Facebook post from a Washington D.C. resident shared the leaked memo, igniting discussions about the implications of such protocols. The post has circulated widely, with users expressing outrage and disbelief regarding the necessity of these measures.
Community reactions and discussions
On platforms like X, discussions have surfaced about the appropriateness of Barry’s response to potential ICE encounters. One user questioned, “Has anyone heard about the 🧊drama regarding the email from Barry’s corp?” This reflects growing concerns among gym-goers and instructors about safety and rights within fitness spaces.
In a conversation with Queerty, a representative from Barry’s referenced tragic events in Minneapolis, where federal agents were involved in the deaths of two U.S. citizens, underscoring the necessity of such protocols. Following the initial memo, Barry’s has reportedly provided additional guidance to its employees.
The evolution of Barry’s gym
Founded in 1998 in West Hollywood by Barry Jay, Barry’s gym has significantly evolved since its inception. Initially designed as a bootcamp, it featured camouflage wallpaper and reinforced netting, with members receiving numbered silver dog tags upon joining, fostering an exclusive community atmosphere.
Over the years, Barry’s has introduced high-intensity workout programs within a nightclub-like environment, quickly becoming a popular choice for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Today, the franchise operates nearly 50 locations across the United States, solidifying its status in the fitness industry.
Legal considerations for private businesses
The legality of private businesses like Barry’s denying entry to ICE agents has sparked significant debate. Numerous small businesses nationwide have declared themselves “ICE free zones,” asserting their rights under current laws. While ICE agents can access public areas without a warrant, they cannot enter private spaces, such as locker rooms and workout areas, without prior consent or a judicial warrant.
Legal experts, including law professor Anthony Michael Kreis, have noted that employees at Barry’s are within their rights to deny ICE access without a warrant. This legal context is vital, particularly as a recent ICE directive suggested agents might enter private residences without a signed warrant, contradicting established legal standards.
Addressing concerns and moving forward
The memo, widely shared on forums like Reddit, outlines specific protocols for instructors to follow during an ICE raid. Among its seven directives, it instructs instructors to remain calm, halt classes, and stay at the front of the room. A crucial instruction emphasizes that instructors should “not take responsibility for anybody other than yourself.”0
The memo, widely shared on forums like Reddit, outlines specific protocols for instructors to follow during an ICE raid. Among its seven directives, it instructs instructors to remain calm, halt classes, and stay at the front of the room. A crucial instruction emphasizes that instructors should “not take responsibility for anybody other than yourself.”1