Know Your Rights and How to Help Others
The following is a statement from Los Angeles City Councilman Adrin Nazarian, who represents portions of the San Fernando Valley, including Van Nuys. “In the last weeks our city has been turned upside down by the current administration’s reckless and chaotic approach to immigration enforcement. Many people have asked me what advice we can give to neighbors who are afraid, or what help we can offer to people we see being detained or harassed.
Remember, under the laws of this country, everyone, whether they’ve been here for a lifetime or a day, has rights.
If you are approached by ICE or people purporting to represent the Department of Homeland Security…
- ~Stay silent. You are not required to answer questions.
- ~Do NOT open the door without a judge-signed warrant. Ask them to slide it under the door.
- ~Do NOT sign anything without a lawyer.
- ~Do NOT show documents without legal advice.
- ~Do NOT run—stay calm.
If you see others being approached and questioned about their immigration status, here are things you can do:
- ~Safely record, document, and report enforcement activity
- ~Get names/badge numbers and witness contacts
- ~If you see ICE – contact CHIRLA Rapid Response Network: 1-888-624-4752
See a more complete list of links and resources on our website: Immigrants’ Rights and Resources.
You can order Red Cards, outlining immigrant rights, along with do’s and dont’s for immigrants and their allies, by visiting the CHIRLA website, clicking on the Red Card illustration above, or visiting our District Office,” said Los Angeles City Councilman Adrin Nazarian.