Potential ICE raids create fear and uncertainty for immigrant families in Chicago. Preparing now helps you protect loved ones, secure documents and understand your legal rights during any encounter with immigration officials.
How to create a family safety plan
A family safety plan helps you act calmly if a family member is detained. It should include key contacts, written authorizations and proof of your presence in the United States. You can strengthen your plan by taking these steps:
- Memorize emergency contacts: Learn the phone numbers of family, friends and your lawyer.
- Designate childcare: Authorize a trusted adult to pick up your children from school or daycare. Provide written consent for medical care.
- Prepare legal consent forms: Ask an attorney to draft a short-term power of attorney so a trusted adult can make decisions for your children if you are detained.
- Secure important documents: Keep passports, birth certificates and proof of two years’ physical presence in a safe place.
A written plan ensures your family can respond quickly and reduces stress during an unexpected encounter.
What to do during an encounter with ICE
If ICE agents approach your home, workplace or a public space, remain calm and assert your rights. Everyone in the United States regardless of immigration status has constitutional protections. Follow these key steps:
- Do not open the door: Ask officers to show a warrant signed by a judge.
- Do not sign documents: Never sign anything without first speaking to an attorney.
- Exercise your right to remain silent: You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or birthplace.
- Request a lawyer: Clearly state that you want to speak to an attorney.
- Document the encounter: Record agents’ names, badge numbers and what occurred.
Staying calm and informed can preserve your legal options.
Local protections and support in Chicago
Chicago has reaffirmed its commitment to immigrant families through the Protecting Chicago Initiative. This executive order signed by Mayor Brandon Johnson directs city departments not to cooperate with unlawful federal immigration actions and protects residents’ constitutional rights.
Steps you can consider
Each family’s situation is unique. An experienced immigration attorney can review your documents, prepare legal authorizations and guide you if detention occurs.
