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Hypothetical Scenarios & Step-by-Step Advice

Below are common situations undocumented individuals may face and clear steps to handle them safely. Each scenario includes actions for both individuals and allies.
 

Scenario 1: ICE Visits Your Home

Situation: Early morning, ICE knocks loudly at your door.

Individual:

  • Don't Open Door: Ask if they have a warrant signed by a judge. Check through a window or under the door. If no warrant, do not let them in.

  • Stay Silent: Say clearly, "I choose to remain silent."

  • Don’t Sign Anything: Don’t give them any documents or IDs.

  • Document: If safe, record the interaction.

  • Call Lawyer: Contact an immigration attorney or support hotline immediately.

 

Allies:

  • Document Safely: Film interactions from a distance.

  • Don’t Share Details: Avoid discussing the individual's status openly.

  • Support Family: Help contact lawyers and provide immediate assistance, especially with childcare or housing.


 

Scenario 2: Overstayed Visa and Lost Status

Situation: Your legal visa expired, and you are now undocumented.

Individual:

  • Stay Calm & Stay in U.S.: Leaving could trigger 3-year or 10-year bans from returning.

  • Know Rights: You still have rights to due process and a hearing before deportation.

  • Consult a Lawyer: A legal advisor can assess potential pathways to regain status (e.g., marriage, family petitions, humanitarian visas).

  • Avoid Risks: Stay clear of driving without a license or criminal activity.

  • Plan Ahead: Prepare emergency plans for family and finances.

 

Allies:

  • Provide Emotional Support: Understand anxiety is normal; reassure your friend.

  • Assist Practically: Help find legal aid and organize important documents.

  • Stay Updated: Inform your friend of new immigration policies or relief programs.


 

Scenario 3: Traffic Stop Without a License

Situation: You're undocumented, driving without a license, and stopped by police.

Individual:

  • Stay Calm: Pull over safely, hands visible.

  • Cooperate Minimally: Provide your name if asked. Politely state you don't have a license.

  • Remain Silent: Do not discuss your immigration status.

  • Accept Ticket: If issued a ticket, accept it calmly; signing does not admit guilt.

 

Allies:

  • Film Interaction: Discreetly record the encounter.

  • Help Afterward: Provide transportation alternatives or help pay fines.


 

Additional Scenario 4: Workplace ICE Raid

Situation: ICE conducts a raid at your workplace.

Individual:

  • Stay Silent: You have the right to remain silent.

  • Don't Sign Anything: Refuse to sign paperwork without legal advice.

  • Request Lawyer: Ask immediately to speak to an attorney.

 

Allies:

  • Observe & Document: Safely record the event.

  • Support Colleagues: Help affected coworkers afterward by connecting them with legal resources.


 

Scenario 5: Child's School Requests Immigration Papers

Situation: The school asks for proof of immigration status to enroll your child.

Individual:

  • Know Your Rights: Schools cannot deny enrollment based on immigration status.

  • Clarify Requirements: Provide only required proof of residence and vaccinations.

  • Seek Support: Contact the ACLU or immigrant advocacy groups if enrollment is denied.

 

Allies:

  • Advocate: Inform schools about immigrant enrollment rights.

  • Assist Families: Help parents gather necessary documentation or connect them with legal resources.


 

Scenario 6: Medical Emergency Without Insurance

Situation: You are undocumented and face a medical emergency without insurance.

Individual:

  • Seek Immediate Care: Emergency rooms must treat you regardless of status or ability to pay.

  • Use Confidentiality: Hospitals typically do not share patient immigration status with ICE.

  • Ask About Charity Care: Many hospitals offer financial assistance programs.

 

Allies:

  • Accompany to Hospital: Offer emotional support and assist with paperwork.

  • Research Options: Help find local healthcare clinics or financial support programs.

 

Remember:

Knowing how to respond calmly and clearly can protect you and your loved ones. Preparation and awareness of your rights can greatly impact outcomes.

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