As U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other immigration enforcement authorities are increasing their presence in more and more cities across the country, families are understandably worried about being separated, detained, or worse.
While the Trump administration insists that immigration enforcement is only targeting people with violent criminal records, the facts on the ground paint a very different picture. In fact, almost 75,000 people arrested by ICE in the first nine months of his administration have no criminal record at all—and as of November, nearly 200 U.S. citizens had been detained.
If you’re a parent who’s feeling concerned about immigration enforcement in your area, knowing your rights is an important step to take to protect your family. Here’s what you need to know if you’re approached or arrested by immigration enforcement—
- You have the right to remain silent and speak to a lawyer.
- You have the right to demand a signed warrant before letting ICE into your home.
- You have the right to make decisions about the care and custody of your child at the time of arrest.
- You have the right to be kept near your child and stay in touch with them while detained.
- You can ask for assistance in most detention centers to help you make plans for your children.
- You can be part of your child’s welfare court case while you are in ICE detention.
- You can decide whether your child will remain in the U.S. and make alternative care arrangements.
Regardless of immigration status, lots of people are feeling at risk for being targeted by ICE, particularly parents and families with Latin heritage. If you are concerned about the potential impacts of immigration enforcement on your family, here are several resources that may be helpful—
- National Immigration Law Center: List of rights (available in English and Spanish)
- Informed Immigrant: Steps to prepare your family (available in English and Spanish)
- ICE: Detained Parents Directive
