With Trump’s talks of building walls, the border patrol detaining families at the border in jail-like cells and children dying in the border patrol’s custody, many non-citizens worry about their future and their very lives. If you are one of those individuals, you need to prepare should a member of law enforcement detain you or worse, put you through an immigration raid in Chicago.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas wants you to know that, first and foremost, you have rights. The Constitution protects everyone, regardless of whether they were born in the U.S. or not, and regardless of one’s immigration status. Per the Constitution, you have the right to be treated fairly, the right to practice the religion of your choice, the right to free speech and the right to other core civil liberties. It is essential that you understand your rights should a member of law enforcement violate them during a raid.
If a member of law enforcement or the border patrol raids your home, stay calm. Know that you do not have to open the door and you have every right to know who is at your door. It is not uncommon for agents to use false information to gain entry, so be wary. If the agents demand to enter your home, ask them to procure a warrant, which a judge must have signed. If they claim to have a warrant, ask them to slip it under the door. The warrant must contain your name or the name of a person who lives at your address. In all other cases, keep the door closed and clearly articulate that you do not consent to entry.
If you speak Spanish and the agents do not, demand an interpreter. The agents cannot deny you this common courtesy.
It is imperative that you do not lie or procure false documents. You should also refuse to sign any papers without first speaking to an immigration attorney.
These are scary times to be living in the U.S. as an immigrant. However, know that no matter how bad things may get, you do have rights.
The information in this post is not legal advice. It is for purely educational purposes.
