Preparing for the Worst: How Immigrants and Communities Can Resist ICE Raids in the Trump Era
The day many of us dreaded has arrived. With Donald Trump about to be officially sworn in as president, his anti-immigrant rhetoric is on the verge of becoming harsh policies that could profoundly impact some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. Among the most distressing possibilities is an increase in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. These operations don’t just disrupt lives—they tear families apart, weaken communities, and leave people in a constant state of fear.
In these challenging times, unity is more important than ever. We must not only resist but also take steps to protect each other. Here’s what immigrants and their allies should know about ICE raids—and how to prepare.
Know Your Rights: Everyone Has Them
Knowledge is a powerful defense for anyone who might face an ICE raid. Whether documented or undocumented, everyone in the U.S. has rights under the Constitution. Here’s what you need to remember:
Do Not Open the Door: ICE cannot enter your home without a warrant signed by a judge. If agents knock, ask them to slide the warrant under the door. Many times, they rely on administrative warrants, which do not grant them the legal right to enter.
Stay Silent: You have the right to remain silent. Don’t answer questions about your immigration status, and don’t sign anything without consulting a lawyer.
Request an Attorney: Everyone, regardless of immigration status, has the right to legal representation. If detained, ask to speak to a lawyer immediately.
Document Everything: If you witness an ICE raid, record what happens (if it’s safe to do so). Take note of agent names, badge numbers, and details about the incident.
Create a Family Safety Plan
If you or someone you love is undocumented, having a plan in place can help reduce the chaos and uncertainty of a sudden detention. Here are practical steps to take:
Designate an Emergency Contact: Choose someone trustworthy who can quickly step in to coordinate support for your family.
Organize Important Documents: Gather birth certificates, passports, medical records, and immigration papers. Keep copies in a secure place and share duplicates with a trusted friend or family member.
Arrange Guardianship for Children: Make legal arrangements for who will care for your children if you are detained.
Save Money for Legal Support: Legal representation is essential, so set aside funds if possible. Many communities also have immigrant legal defense funds—research these resources now.
Access Resources for Immigrants
No one should have to face these challenges alone. Many organizations provide critical support for immigrants, including legal aid, education, and advocacy. Here are a few:
National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Offers resources for immigrants and legal advocates. Visit their website for guides on rights and deportation defense.
Immigrant Defense Project (IDP): Provides know-your-rights materials and helps connect individuals with legal representation.
United We Dream: A youth-led immigrant advocacy group offering a 24/7 Deportation Defense Hotline at 1-844-363-1423.
RAICES (Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services): Offers free or low-cost legal services to immigrants and asylum seekers.
ACLU’s Immigrant Rights Project: Works to protect immigrant rights through advocacy and litigation.
Strengthen Community Networks
In the face of adversity, solidarity is our most powerful tool. Here are some ways to support and protect each other:
Create Rapid Response Teams: Many cities have networks of volunteers who document ICE activity, offer emotional support, and connect families to legal resources.
Host Know-Your-Rights Workshops: Educate others in your community about their rights during an ICE raid.
Pressure Local Officials: Advocate for sanctuary policies and push local leaders to limit cooperation with ICE.
Show Up for Each Other: Attend rallies, vigils, and community events to demonstrate solidarity with immigrants and send a clear message to ICE and elected officials.
Resist Together
While the Trump administration may have the power to pursue an anti-immigrant agenda, it cannot silence us. Every act of resistance—whether it’s offering help to a neighbor, attending a protest, or volunteering legal aid—matters. Together, we can build stronger, more resilient communities that stand united against injustice.
To those facing the uncertainty of this new era: You are not alone. We see you, we stand with you, and we will fight for you. Together, we can protect each other and ensure no one is left behind.