Know Your Rights: Immigration Raids
By Skyline Reporter Viviana Sanchez
ALPINE- In recent weeks, ICE raids have continued to become more common in the United States. During these times it is crucial to understand your rights and the proper steps to take if ICE agents approach you at your home, workplace, or school. Here is what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
If ICE Comes to your Home:
Do not open the door- Stay calm and do not open the door unless they have a warrant.
A warrant is paperwork that a judge signs giving them permission to search your house.
Remain Silent- You have the right to remain silent. Do not answer questions about your immigration status or country of origin. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
Record and Document- If possible, use your phone to take notes of the officer's names, badges, and any details about the raid.
Contact an Attorney - Seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
If ICE Comes to Your Workplace:
Stay Calm and Do Not Run – Running could be interpreted as an attempt to evade law enforcement.
Remain Silent - You have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer questions being asked about your citizen status or where you were born.
Documentation- If you have papers and they are requested, you may show them to the immigration agent.
Self-Incrimination- If an officer instructs you to line up with others based on your immigration status, you have the right to remain where you are. You can inform the officer that you are exercising your right against self-incrimination.
If ICE Comes to Your School:
Schools are Sensitive Locations - ICE will generally avoid them as they are classified as sensitive locations.
Do Not Answer Questions- If you stopped on your way to school, politely decline to answer questions and request legal representation.
Notify School Officials- If ICE is present in the school, notify school officials such as teacher, principal, or counselor.
Organizations supporting immigrants:
American Civil Rights Union (ACLU)
aclu.org | (212) 549-2500
National Immigration Law Center
nilc.org |(213) 639 -3900
Immigrant Defense Project
immigrantdefenseproject.org | (212) 725-6422
United We Dream
unitedwedream.org | (866) 853-2728
National Immigrant Justice Center
immigrant justice.org | (312) 660-1370
Al Otro Lado Inc
alotrolado.org | (323) 238-9935
Understanding your rights and being prepared can make a significant difference in ensuring yours and others' safety during encounters with ICE. Stay informed and share this information with your community to help protect those at risk.
