Editor, Journal:
In response to recent federal actions on immigration in our community, it is important for residents to access “Know Your Rights” resources to understand their protections under the law. Every person in Illinois regardless of citizenship or immigration status has constitutional rights.
The Illinois Attorney General’s Office has issued clear guidance to help residents protect themselves and their families from unconstitutional or discriminatory actions. Key protections include:
• You are not required to answer questions from police or immigration agents and may clearly state that you choose to remain silent.
• You have the right to request an attorney and an interpreter before speaking or signing anything Immigration agents cannot enter your home unless they present a warrant signed by a judge; if the document is not signed by a judge, you can refuse entry.
• If officers or agents force their way in, do not resist, instead calmly state that you do not consent to a search and wish to speak with an attorney.
• Carry valid identification and keep your immigration papers with you if you have them; you should never present false documents or information.
The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights can be contacted at 855-435-7693 (English, Spanish, Korean, and Polish languages available). This hotline can be used to report Trust Act violations, report ICE activity, receive support to locate someone in ICE custody, connect with an immigration attorney, and more.
Additionally, the Illinois Immigration Hub at illinoisimmigrationinfo.org has important information including a “know your rights” toolkit, what to do if a loved one has been detained, how to prepare for an ICE encounter, and how to make a family emergency plan.
To protect yourself and your family, it is important to:
Learn your rights and practice how you will respond in an encounter
Create a family emergency plan that includes trusted contacts and child care arrangements
Keep important documents in a safe and accessible place
Memorize important phone numbers, including the ICIRR hotline
Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors
Community members should share these resources widely to ensure that all residents understand their rights and have access to the help they need.
Name withheld upon request
Des Plaines
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