Know Your Rights: Protecting Our Immigrant Community

At Amanecer Counseling & Resource Center, we understand that many immigrant families live in constant fear of being detained or separated. This fear has led many individuals to avoid interacting with government agencies, even when they need essential services like a driver’s license or medical care.

This overwhelming fear often prevents immigrants from going to work or sending their children to school, affecting their safety, economic stability, and education. Current policies have only intensified these concerns within families and communities.

That’s why it’s crucial to know your rights and understand how to respond during an encounter with ICE.

Your Basic Rights

📌 No matter your immigration status, you have rights in the U.S.:

✔ Right to remain silent – You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status.
✔ Right to an attorney – Never sign any document without first consulting a lawyer.
✔ Right to refuse entry into your home without a warrant – ICE cannot enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge.

What to Do If You Encounter ICE

📍 If ICE stops you:
✅ Stay calm and do not run.
✅ Avoid sharing information about your country of origin or immigration status.
✅ Ask if you are free to leave. If not, request to speak with a lawyer.

📍 If ICE comes to your home:
✅ Do not open the door unless they show you a valid warrant signed by a judge.
✅ Never sign any documents without first consulting a lawyer.

Resources to Protect Yourself

📌 Quick videos on how to respond to an ICE officer:
🔗 We Have Rights (Spanish)
🔗 We Have Rights (English)

📌 What to do when encountering an ICE agent & how to hold them accountable:
🔗 Witness Lab – Eyes on ICE
🔗 Immigrant Defense Project – Raids

📌 Red Cards – Know Your Rights Cards (Ordered but still in transit):
🔗 Red Cards Information

📌 Immigrants’ Rights & Legal Support:
🔗 ACLU – Immigrants’ Rights

📌 ICE Raid Map (Historical data on past raids):
🔗 Raids Map

At Amanecer, we are committed to supporting our community. If you need guidance or emotional support, reach out to us. Knowing your rights is the first step to protecting yourself and your loved ones.

📌 For the complete guide, visit: ILRC Know Your Rights