Immigration populations in New Jersey told to 'know your rights' amid ICE raids
Workshops are being held, instructing people on what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows up at their front door.
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As the fear of immigration raids across New Jersey rises, organizations that cater to those who are new to the United States are informing people of their rights.
Within the city of Newark, immigrants are at the heart of the Ironbound section. Within those neighborhoods, workshops are being held, instructing people on what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows up at their front door.
GlendyTsitouras is with the American Friends Service Committee.
“The first thing we say is do not open the door. ICE cannot enter into your home unless they have a warrant signed by a judge," she says.
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Tsitouras has been teaching people their legal rights and handing out cards that explicitly say:
“Do not open the door for ICE agents.
Ask to see a warrant.
Review the warrant to see if it’s valid.
Document what happens with your phone.
Keep silent.
“Know Your Rights” cards even offer a script for what to say if approached.
It reads, "Officer, I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.”
Tsitouras says these questions have ramped up since three people were arrested at Ocean Seafood Depot in Newark in an ICE raid.
She adds that the raids around the country have had another impact.
“So many people are not sending kids to school anymore because they’re afraid," she says.
She is telling these parents that they should be sending their kids to school and adds to stop listening to rhetoric on social media and get educated.
