This archive report was first published on 15 July 2019.
On July 14, 2019, the Trump administration launched immigration raids in 10 US cities, targeting approximately 20,000 families. Although the raids were reported to be smaller in scale than initially feared, immigration advocates are urging immigrants to be prepared and know their rights.
Immigration lawyers stress that it is impossible for the administration to arrest and deport millions of people. However, they advise those with open deportation cases or uncertain immigration status to consult with immigration law experts as soon as possible to avoid being caught up in any future raids.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) emphasizes that immigrants have Constitutionally guaranteed rights, regardless of their immigration status. If ICE agents arrive at your door, the ACLU advises the following:
- Stay calm and keep the door closed. ICE agents should not enter your home without permission, unless they have a valid arrest warrant.
- Exercise your right to remain silent, even if the officer has a warrant.
- Do not lie about your immigration status or provide false documents.
- Do not sign anything without first consulting a lawyer.
- Do not run.
- If ICE agents claim to have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the door or hold it up to a window so you can read it.
- If ICE agents force their way in, do not resist. You have the right to remain silent, even if they break in.
- If you are on probation with a search condition, law enforcement is allowed to enter your home.
