Immigrant Rights
If you have questions or inquiries,
call our main office at:
For emergencies, call
our bilingual emergency hotline:
REMEMBER:
Write down and memorize the phone number of an attorney or support organization.
HERE TO STAY, STANDING STRONG!
No matter your immigration status, you have rights, and it’s essential to know, defend, and use them with confidence. These materials are here to help you stay informed and prepared to protect yourself if you encounter ICE or the police.
Know Your Rights!
Do Not Open the Door
ICE cannot enter without a signed warrant from a judge. Ask them to slide the warrant under the door.
Remain Silent
Do not answer questions about your immigration status or place of origin. Inform them that you have the right to remain silent until you can consult with your attorney. Pass them the red card under the door.
Do Not Run or Resist
If you are in a public space or your vehicle, stay still and avoid arguing. Running or resisting can escalate the situation and put you in greater danger.
Do Not Sign Any Document
Don’t sign without consulting a lawyer first.
Do Not Lie
ICE and the police may lie to obtain information, and the law allows them to do so. However, you must not lie or provide false information. Remain silent! Do not argue, insult, or physically resist. Do not claim to be a U.S. citizen if you are not. Falsely claiming citizenship can lead to severe legal consequences.
Film And Take Photos
Document everything carefully. Record or take photos and detailed notes, including key information such as badge numbers, names or IDs of agents, the location, and the time of the encounter.
Do not share or publish content until the facts have been confirmed to avoid spreading alarm or misinformation.
Civil rights card to give to police or ICE
I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.
I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it, that you slide under the door.
I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.
I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.
* Our resources serve as general guidance and do not constitute legal advice.
The information presented here is intended for both citizens and non-citizens and was adapted from materials developed by the ACLU, Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), United We Dream, CASA of Maryland, Detention Watch Network, and the National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild.