Know Your Rights

We are living in dark times and want you to be prepared for anything that may come along involving ICE. Unfortunately, US citizens and children who are US citizens have been deported. ICE isn't just looking for undocumented people, they are racial profiling latinos specifically. I know many may have a driver's license but you should keep a photocopy of your birth certificate and passport if you have it. (If you don't, you should consider filing for a passport as well for your children. If you can pay to get it expedited you should.) You never know what may happen and if someone is detained who is a US citizen, they can have their passport shipped so they can come back or have someone fly to Mexico to take it to them. Then obviously file a lawsuit. I don't know if your children are in school but if they are they should have a photocopy of their documents. ICE has been going to schools, hospitals and churches. Also have an In case of emergency letter in their backpack with who to reach out to if something were to happen. (You can get it notarized.) It's best to be prepared for any situation.

If you are ever driving and are pulled over by ICE. Lower your window a little where they can't reach in and open your door. (I've seen videos of this as well) If they ask about your status for citizenship you should answer and show proof to expedite the process. (Drivers License or ID) If not then show proof of process. Carry copies or photocopy of your immigration receipts. Do not make any statements. (5th Amendment) Just listen and Respond. If you do not speak or understand English, request an interpreter in your native language or you can refuse to answer due to your 5 amendment. Ask if you are suspected of a crime. If they can't answer or say no then you should be free to leave but some may push and become aggressive. If they continue to ask you questions about your citizenship it's best to remain silent and call an attorney if you have someone. If you have someone who is undocumented in your car they can't ask them any questions. Tell them to remain silent as well. I've seen cases where they will eventually leave you alone and others who cross the line. I would make sure you are recording in your car so you can save it for your protection or in case you need to file a lawsuit.

If YOU ARE STOPPED

You have the right to remain silent and request the presence of your attorney.
In a traffic stop, passengers do not have to provide their ID, only drivers.
ICE may not search you or your car without a warrant
Say you do not contest, ask to leave, refuse a search/fingerprinting but if forced, stay safe: do not resist.

Record everything. If someone is there with you, have them record. (This helps for s lawsuit)

If ICE ever comes to your house don't open the door. If they become aggressive, ask what they want. (Keep the door closed) They're not allowed to enter your house without a warrant. If they have one, make sure the warrant is signed by a judge and not by an ICE officer. Also make sure your name or the person's name they are looking for is on that warrant.

LIES OR TRICKS USED BY ICE TO ENTER HOMES OR GET INFORMATION

Petending a lost ID has been found or claiming someone is a crime suspect under investigation.
Calling to ask where someone is or to convince you to meet them somewhere outside the home.
Pretending to be local police by wearing plain clothes or uniforms that say "POLICE" or "FEDERAL AGENT."

Be safe and if you have any questions feel free to reach out. (I hope you never encounter anything I just addressed.) Feel free to send this to anyone who may need it. If you need it in Spanish, let me know. Also, never sign anything. Whether you are a US citizen or not.