As the US government promises mass deportations, many people fear for their safety or that of their loved ones.
One way out of this fear is knowledge. Knowledge empowers you to take care of yourself and your family. Share your knowledge with others.
- KNOW YOUR RIGHTS – don’t be detained by ICE
- KNOW YOUR CASE – if detained, don’t be deported
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!
The U.S. Constitution provides rights for everyone.
- Law enforcement or ICE cannot enter your home unless they have a warrant signed by a judge, or if you let them in
If ICE comes to your house, ask if they have a warrant—if they do, ask to see it. You do not need to open your door until you have confirmed that they have a warrant that has your name, your address, and is signed by a judge.
- Be aware – ICE warrants are usually NOT signed by a judge and do NOT give immigration officers the right to enter your home without your consent. Look at the warrant very carefully!
Even with a warrant, you still have a right to remain silent.
- If you are stopped or questioned by law enforcement or ICE, you do NOT have to provide any information or answer any questions.
- If you are stopped while driving, only provide your driver’s license, and—if asked—your car’s registration and insurance information
If officers force their way into your home do not resist. Record everything that happens, but do not interfere with the officers themselves. You are always allowed to record your interactions with law enforcement or immigration officers. These recordings could be crucial to protecting your rights.
KNOW YOUR CASE!
Expedited removal means that a person is deported without seeing a judge. Expedited removal applies to people who have been in the United States for less than two years and who entered without a visa.
- If you entered with a visa, carry a copy of your proof of entry
- If you have lived in the U.S. for more than two years, carry proof of your presence
- If you are already in immigration court proceedings, carry proof
- If you have immigration status (DACA, U visa, TPS), carry proof
Prepare yourself and your family for what to do if you are detained by ICE.
- memorize phone numbers of loved ones and your attorney, you will be allowed to make phone calls, but you may not have access to your personal phone
- make a plan with family and children – who can they contact if you are not able to pick up children from school? they need to know who to contact/where to go
- know your A number (alien registration number) if you already have an immigration process
If you see someone else being detained by ICE:
- record everything, with your phone and in writing
- do not interfere
- report raids to WAISN (in Washington state) 1-844-RAID-REP (1-844-724-3737)
Remember: you are not alone.
Resources:
https://www.immigrantdefenseproject.org/know-your-rights-with-ice/#from-ICE-detention
https://nnirr.org/education-resources/community-resources-legal-assistance-recursos-comunitarios-asistencia-legal/immigration-hotlines-lineas-directas-de-inmigracion/
https://legalaidnyc.org/get-help/immigration-deportation/what-you-need-to-know-about-ice-encounters/