18/06/2025
IF APPROACHED BY I.C.E. AGENTS, KNOW AND EXERCISE YOUR RIGHTS, BUT REMAIN POLITE!!
If immigration officers (ICE) stop you, remain calm and polite, but exercise your rights. You can politely decline to answer questions, state you are using your right to remain silent, and ask if you are free to leave. You are not required to show them documents that reveal your country of origin unless they have a warrant, and you should never show false documents or lie.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Stay Calm and Polite:
Don't run away: Running away can be interpreted as guilt.
Don't resist or obstruct officers: This can lead to further complications.
Be respectful but firm in asserting your rights.
2. Know Your Rights:
Right to remain silent: You are not obligated to answer questions. You can say, "I choose to remain silent" or "I am using my right to remain silent".
Right to refuse a search: Unless they have a warrant, you do not have to consent to a search of your person or belongings.
Right to ask if you are free to leave: If they say yes, calmly leave the area.
Right to an attorney: If you are detained, you have the right to speak with a lawyer.
3. What to Say:
"I choose to remain silent."
"Am I free to leave?"
"I do not consent to a search."
"I would like to speak with an attorney."
4. Other Important Actions:
Record the interaction: If possible, use your phone to record the encounter or ask someone else to.
Note details: Write down the officers' names, badge numbers, agency, and the time and location of the stop.
Contact an attorney or legal organization: If you are detained or have further questions, seek legal advice.
5. If They Have a Warrant:
Verify the warrant: Make sure it is signed by a judge (not ICE) and has your correct name and address.
Don't obstruct entry: If they have a valid warrant, they can enter your home.
Don't sign anything you don't understand.
Important Considerations:
Don't show false documents: Providing false information or documents can have serious consequences.
Don't lie about your immigration status: Be truthful about where you were born or how you entered the country.
Be prepared: Practice saying these phrases out loud so you feel more comfortable using them in a stressful situation.
Carry a Know Your Rights card: This can be a helpful reminder and can be shown to the officers.
Inform your family and friends: Let them know what to do if you are detained.