Everyone in the U.S. has certain rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution, regardless of your immigration status. It is important to know and understand your rights, especially when it comes to your safety when coming in contact with immigration or law enforcement. Knowing and understanding your rights will help you advocate for yourself and others, as well as know how to respond accordingly.
For preparedness guides with helpful information on preparing as well as responding to a raid in your home, workplace, or in a public space, visit informed immigrant.
If you are undocumented or have questions about your immigration status, you should immediately seek out an immigration attorney or a Department of Justice- accredited representative to represent and advise you. Immigration law is complicated, and an attorney can help you understand if you qualify for existing legal pathways, or if you should set up legal guardians for your children in case anything happens. It is estimated that 1.2 million undocumented people may be eligible for some form of immigration relief, so seek counsel.
Every family regardless of immigration status should make a family preparedness plan in case of emergency. Family preparedness plans are a collection of documents and important information about family member's medical history, childcare preferences, social security numbers, financial matters, and more. A preparedness plan also outlines immediate and long-term actions to be taken if a member of the family is detained or otherwise at risk. Compiling this plan ahead of time will reduce stress and result in better outcomes for your family. Learn more from this guide.
